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The assassination was the trigger, not the only cause. It set off a chain of alliances, rivalries, and mobilizations that led to the outbreak of World War I in July 1914. -
American neutrality was important because it kept the U.S. out of the war long enough to build its economy, maintain peace at home, and later enter the war as a powerful force that helped the Allies win. -
The Battle of the Marne was crucial because it kept the Allies in the fight, stopped Germany’s rapid success, and set the stage for the long, brutal trench warfare that defined World War I. -
The sinking of the Lusitania was important because it angered the world, damaged Germany’s reputation, and pushed the United States closer to joining World War I. -
The Battle of Verdun was important because it showed the horror and determination of World War I, proved France’s resilience, and drained both sides, changing the balance of the war. -
The Sussex Incident was important because it highlighted the dangers of unrestricted submarine warfare, angered the U.S., and set the stage for America joining World War I. -
The Battle of the Somme was important because it highlighted the horrors of WWI, weakened Germany, and pushed the development of modern warfare tactics, even though the human cost was enormous. -
The Zimmerman Telegram was important because it exposed Germany’s secret plans, angered Americans, and helped bring the U.S. into World War I, tipping the balance in favor of the Allies. -
Unrestricted submarine warfare was important because it threatened neutral nations, escalated tensions, and ultimately brought the U.S. into World War I, changing the course of the conflict. -
The U.S. entering World War I was important because it strengthened the Allies, hastened Germany’s defeat, and positioned America as a major world power. -
The Selective Service Act was important because it provided the manpower the U.S. needed to fight in World War I, helping the Allies and establishing the U.S. as a major military power. -
The Espionage Act was important because it helped the U.S. government maintain control and security during World War I, but it also sparked debates about free speech and civil liberties. -
The AEF was important because it reinforced the Allies at a critical time, contributed to Germany’s defeat, and marked the emergence of the United States as a global military force. -
The Fourteen Points were important because they offered a blueprint for peace, promoted international cooperation, and influenced both the Treaty of Versailles and future global organizations. -
The Spanish Flu Epidemic was important because it killed millions, disrupted societies worldwide, and revealed the global vulnerability to pandemics, leaving lasting lessons for public health. -
Russia pulling out of World War I was important because it freed up German forces, reshaped the war’s strategy, and changed the political landscape in Russia, with long-term consequences for Europe.