Before World War I, an increase in international rivalries led to tensions throughout Europe. Nations were competing for overseas colonies, and they were also engaged in a massive arms race.
 As nations kept a wary eye on the actions of their neighbors, they often established alliances with countries with whom they had common interests. Although it was hoped that this would provide protection, it also meant that more than one nation could be drawn into a war caused by a dispute in which it was not directly involved. An this is what happened when Austria-Hungary declared war on Serbia.
 Most European nations were quickly drawn into this war. In the West, Germany invaded France, hoping for a quick victory, but the war settled into deadly stalemate that would last for over three years.
 In the East, the Russians had early success, but they were soon rolled back. The country was undergoing a revolution and sought a separate peace with Germany.
 The United States entered the war in 1917. The following year, Germany gambled and launched an offensive along the Western Fromt. The Allies, with American assistance, pushed the Germans back. With America in the war, Germany could not match the Allied strength. Because the country was weak and wracked with internal dissension, the government sought a peace settlement.

---

Return to History of the United States