1917

Definition

The year 1917 was a pivotal moment in history, marked by significant events that shaped the course of World War I and the global response to immigration. This year saw the United States formally enter the war, influenced by factors such as unrestricted submarine warfare and the Zimmermann Telegram, which heightened tensions with Germany. Additionally, 1917 witnessed revolutionary movements in Russia that led to the Bolshevik Revolution, altering the landscape of European politics and the war's outcome.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The United States declared war on Germany on April 6, 1917, marking its official entry into World War I.
2. Unrestricted submarine warfare by Germany led to significant loss of American lives and ships, pushing public sentiment towards supporting the war effort.
3. The Bolshevik Revolution in October 1917 resulted in Russia withdrawing from World War I, significantly impacting the balance of power in Europe.
4. The Selective Service Act allowed for the conscription of American men into the military, leading to millions being drafted to support the war.
5. In 1917, immigration policies began tightening in response to rising xenophobia and national security concerns during wartime.

Review Questions

• How did the events of 1917 influence America's decision to enter World War I?
  • In 1917, America's decision to enter World War I was heavily influenced by factors like Germany's unrestricted submarine warfare, which threatened American shipping and lives. The interception of the Zimmermann Telegram further escalated tensions, revealing Germany's intent to ally with Mexico against the U.S. This combination of aggressive military tactics and diplomatic threats galvanized public opinion and led Congress to declare war on Germany in April.
• What impact did the Bolshevik Revolution have on World War I and global politics in 1917?
  • The Bolshevik Revolution dramatically shifted the dynamics of World War I by leading Russia to withdraw from the conflict. This not only changed military strategies on the Eastern Front but also sparked widespread revolutionary sentiments across Europe and beyond. The emergence of a communist government in Russia introduced a new political ideology that challenged existing capitalist structures, influencing global politics for decades.
• Evaluate how changes in immigration policy during 1917 reflected broader social attitudes toward immigrants amid World War I.
  • In 1917, changes in immigration policy were reflective of growing nationalistic sentiments and fears regarding security during World War I. As America prepared for war, there was an increasing perception that immigrants could pose risks to national unity and safety. This led to stricter immigration laws, including literacy tests and restrictions aimed at certain nationalities, demonstrating how wartime conditions could exacerbate xenophobic attitudes and reshape immigration practices.

Related terms

Zimmermann Telegram:

A secret diplomatic communication sent by Germany to Mexico proposing a military alliance against the United States, which contributed to U.S. entry into World War I.

Bolshevik Revolution:

The 1917 revolution in Russia that resulted in the overthrow of the Provisional Government and the establishment of a communist government led by Vladimir Lenin.

Selective Service Act: A law passed in 1917 that authorized the federal government to draft soldiers for military service in World War I.