World War I (Lesson Plan)

While North Carolina made strong contributions to the fight in WWI, it is important to understand the differing perspectives regarding the United States’ war effort. Read about the many Americans who preferred to be isolated from troubles abroad versus those sought to join the war. This lesson plan includes photographs, posters, and newspaper articles, as well as activities to help with analysis. 

Tab/Accordion Items

At the conclusion of this lesson, students will be able to: 

  • Identify and evaluate a variety of primary documents 
  • Understand the demands and requests made of citizens in times of war and peace 
  • Consider various responsibilities and responses of citizens in a democracy

  • What different views did North Carolinians have about World War I? 
  • What actions did they take in support of their views? 
  • What documents provide proof of these actions?

In June of 1914 the Archduke Ferdinand of Austria was assassinated. A complex series of pacts among European nations resulted in the outbreak of a widespread war between the Central powers of Germany and Austria-Hungary and the Allied powers of Great Britain, France, and Russia. 

America adopted a stance of strict neutrality at the beginning of the war. Many Americans favored isolationism—distancing themselves from the troubles elsewhere in the world. Because they were separated by an ocean, this seemed easy to accomplish. In addition, America was a nation of immigrants. There were citizens with ties to each of the warring nations. 

Initially, President Woodrow Wilson hoped to broker a peace in Europe. However, the British and an outspoken group of pro-war Americans continued to urge the U.S. to join the war. Following the sinking by the Germans of the ocean liner Lusitania with American passengers aboard, attitudes in the United States began to turn against Germany. In 1917, a telegram between Germany and Mexico, known as the Zimmerman telegram, was intercepted by the United States. In the telegram Germany encouraged Mexico to join with them in the event the United States entered the war with the promise that certain parts of the United States would be returned to Mexico. This further encouraged Americans to support Great Britain and France. Finally, President Wilson asked for a declaration of war which was granted by Congress in April, 1917. Winning the war required the assistance of citizens in every state. Sometimes that assistance was requested; sometimes it was required.
 

  1. What actions do government authorities request or require today? Answers might include taxation, military service, recycling. 
  2. Were these contributions or sacrifices voluntary or required?
  3. Compelling Question: Is it ever justified for a citizen to refuse to serve? Why or why not?

  • Voluntary rationing in World War I vs. mandatory rationing in World War II 
  • Conscientious objectors 
  • Compare and contrast Herbert Hoover’s legacy as head of the U.S. Food Administration in World War I and his legacy as president of the United States.

Documents

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