Free American Progressivism And Expansionism In Relation To World War 1 Essay Example

The Great War, also known as the First World War began in July 1914. Initially, it manifested itself as a rivalry between Europe and German, but later it drew two opposing allies from all over the world. America had chosen, from the beginning of the war, that it would maintain a neutral position in the war. However, its continued desire and need to progress and expand economically and financially would later force America to participate in the war. US plan was to reap financial benefits from the war by exporting the foodstuff to France and Britain. This would grow its financial muscles as there were increased employment rates and high-profit margins for their companies.
However, the continued trade between US, Britain and France created a great rivalry by German, which in its view; the profitable trade was beneficial to its opponents and not to them at all. In retaliation, German started attacking ships ferrying grains and food stuffs to France and Britain. These ships obviously carrying American citizens as well were shot down, thus causing casualties on US. United States, though initially firm on its stand of remaining neutral, was angered and would not condone the continued attacks on Germany. Meanwhile, Germany was in negotiation with Mexico to gain its support against America, which resulted in increased adverse public opinion among US business and political leaders opposing Germany move. US would later, under Wilson administration, drop domestic reforms that held the country from engaging in the war, which led to their mobilization for the war. Thus, US got into the war against Germany.