Discuss the reasons for, and nature of, Canada’s or one Latin American country’s involvement in the First World War.

The question requires that candidates offer a considered and balanced review of the reasons for, and the nature of, the involvement of either Canada or one Latin American country in the First World War. Canada was involved from the beginning of the war as part of the British Empire. Canadian forces fought on the Western Front throughout the war, participating in many major battles, including the victory at Vimy Ridge. Economically, Canada saw an increase in agricultural and industrial exports. Although German submarine warfare affected many Latin American nations, all remained neutral until after US entry in 1917. Several Caribbean nations declared war, but did little else. Cuba sent a contingent of doctors and nurses to the Western Front and was preparing to send soldiers as the war ended. Brazil declared war in October 1917 in response to continued German U-boat attacks on Brazilian ships. The Brazilian navy patrolled the South Atlantic and a small contingent went to Europe.