With reference to the period up to 1918, discuss the reasons for, and the impact of, US entry into the First World War.

Candidates are required to offer a considered and balanced review of the reasons for and significance of US entry into the war. The may be some imbalance but both elements should be discussed. Reasons for may include unrestricted submarine warfare, the Zimmerman Telegram, inclination of the US to enter the war on the side of Britain and France, and events in Russia, which made it possible to describe the war as a “fight for democracy”. When considering the significance of US entry arguments may vary. Some will argue the impact of fresh US troops led to Allied victory, while others could stress the contribution in military supplies and financial support, arguing that the military significance of US troops was limited. It may be argued that other factors, such as Germany’s weak allies, the naval blockade and Allied victories in 1918 (Amiens) had a greater impact on the outcome of the war.