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Soviet Union receives diplomatic recognition
After ending diplomatic relations with Russia in 1917, the U.S. had a very hostile relationship with the nation. On November 16, the U.S. under the Roosevelt administration extended diplomatic recognition to the Soviet Union hoping to keep a peaceful relationship with the country. -
Address by Secretary of State
Secretary Cordell Hull warned the country of dangers of the international situation. Secretary Hull stated that dictatorship had taken over the place of democracies and warned that a war would be in its way if things continued. He encouraged international countries to work together in peace for the progress of civilization. -
Warnings from Messersmith
Minister to Austria, George Messersmith, warned that the Nazis had their eyes on the eastern frontier. When Secretary Hull spoke with Luther, the German ambassador, Luther denied all accusation stating that the German government was looking for the opportunity to unite Western Europe. -
Secretary Hull and the Italian Ambassador
After Italy's attack on Ethiopia in October, the Italian Ambassador, Rosso, contacted Secretary Hull. Hull expressed his concern on war spreading to other parts of Europe. Hull also stated that Italy didn't think of the serious consequences that were to come with the war before attacking. Italy continued their attack and on May 5, 1936 the capital of Ethiopia fell to its invaders. -
Civil conflict in Spain
After the outbreak of a civil conflict in Spain, the United States wanted to keep promoting peace and avoid involvement in situations that involved war. Because of this policy, in August, the U.S announced that they would not export arms to Spain during this conflict. -
Roosevelt's Address in New York
While delivering an address in New York, President Roosevelt stated that the U.S. was ready to assist foreign countries in their movements to stop the break out of a war. He also stated that he was stopping all political commitments that might entangle the U.S. in any foreign wars. -
The bombing of the Panay
On December 12, a U.S. gunboat, Panay, and three merchant vessels were bombed by Japanese aircraft's on Yangtze River. Two days letter the Japanese Minister of Foreign Affairs sent a note to the U.S. apologizing for the incident and stating that they hoped this incident would not ruin the friendly relation the two nations had. In the earnest desire to stay out of war, the United States accepted the apology. -
Return of Ambassador Wilson from Germany
Throughout 1938 Germany invaded Austria and the tension had grown throughout Europe. In the autumn of 1938, the Germans became increasingly violent with their persecution of the Jews. Americans were shocked that such things could occur at this time. The president ordered Ambassador Hugh Wilson to return from Germany immediately to show their disapproval towards the Germans actions. -
President Roosevelt's address to Hitler and Mussolini
President Roosevelt sent out a personal message to Hitler and Mussolini appealing to maintain peace. In the message Roosevelt stated that there were millions of people living in fear of a new war out breaking. Neither Hitler or Mussolini responded to President Roosevelt's message. -
Neutrality from the war
After Hitler invaded Poland on September 1st, France and Great Britain declared war on Germany beginning the European War. On that evening, President Roosevelt declared the neutrality of the United States at the start of the unfortunate events taking place in Europe. -
U.S. efforts to keep Italy out of the War
After invading Poland, German troops went on to invade Denmark and Norway. Although Italy had not been part of the war, there were indications throughout early spring that the country might soon begin to participate. With these indications, President Roosevelt sent out a message to Mussolini urging him to not join the war. He stated the consequences his actions would have on the rest of the world. Mussolini then told the president that his actions were of no concern to him. -
Revision of the Neutrality Act
President Roosevelt asked congress to revise Neutrality Act they had since it was created at a time where no one knew the magnitude of the Nazi's attempt to dominate Europe and the world. The Nazi's up until this point had attacked most of Europe and sunk many U.S. submarines. The president now wanted to equip national vessels with arms.
