8.4 - World War I and Roaring Twenties

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Various diplomatic, economic, and ideological factors contributed to the United States decision to enter World War I. Involvement in the war significantly altered the lives of Americans. Postwar America was characterized by economic prosperity, technological innovations, and changes in the workplace.

8.4a European militarism, the alliance system, imperialism, and nationalism were all factors that contributed to the start of World War I.

8.4b International, economic, and military developments swayed opinion in favor of the United States siding with the Allies and entering World War I. Domestic responses to World War I limited civil liberties within the United States.
  • Students will examine an overview of the causes of World War I, focusing on the factors leading to United States entry into the war.
  • Students will examine examples of war propaganda and its effects on support for United States involvement in the war.
  • Students will examine the restrictions placed on citizens after United States entry into the war, including the Espionage Act (1917) and the Sedition Act (1918).
8.4c New military technologies changed military strategy in World War I and resulted in an unprecedented number of casualties.
  • Students will examine the effects of the changes in military technologies used during World War I, including trench warfare, chemical weapons, machine guns, and aircraft.
8.4d Following extensive political debate, the United States refused to ratify the Treaty of Versailles. The United States then sought to return to prewar policies by focusing on domestic rather than international matters.
  • Students will examine Wilson’s Fourteen Points and investigate reasons why the United States Senate refused to support the Treaty of Versailles, focusing on opposition to the League of Nations.
8.4e After World War I, the United States entered a period of economic prosperity and cultural change. This period is known as the Roaring Twenties. During this time, new opportunities for women were gained, and African Americans engaged in various efforts to distinguish themselves and celebrate their culture.
  • Students will investigate the efforts of women suffragists and explain the historical significance of the 19th amendment.
  • Students will examine the reasons for and effects of prohibition on American society.
  • Students will examine examples of World War I and postwar race relations, such as the East St. Louis riots, the Silent March, and the Tulsa riots.
  • Students will explore the changes in American culture after World War I, including an examination of the Harlem Renaissance and other changes in New York City.

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