Study Guide: HISTORY 1302, Module 1.4 - US shifted to progressivism

"Yo, what it is! You know what it is, it’s your man Kingmusa— and welcome to The Study Guide! I'm here to break down today's class notes and help us learn together. Today, we will delve into Module 1.4 - US shifted to progressivism, focusing on Extending reform—US and the World, The President Requests Congress Declare War, The Limits of Dissent, and Video, Life in the Trenches in WWI.

Key Concept of the Day:

“Extending Reform—US and the World” is a must-read for students of American history, political science, and international relations, offering a comprehensive understanding of the Progressive Era’s influence on legislation and the origins of American interventionism. “The President Requests Congress Declare War” is crucial for students of international relations, political rhetoric, and American history, delving into the motivations behind U.S. entry into World War I and the evolution of its foreign policy. “The Limits of Dissent” is essential for students of law, history, and constitutional studies, presenting a critical case study examining civil liberties during wartime and the constraints on dissent. “The U.S. and World War I” is vital for students of international relations and American foreign policy, providing a historical perspective on the pressures leading to neutrality abandonment. Lastly, “Video, Life in the Trenches in WWI” is relevant to students of history, military studies, and psychology, offering a stark lesson about the human cost of war.

Here are the main points:

1. The United States transitioned from the populist movement to progressivism in the early 20th century. Progressivism acknowledged change as inevitable but sought to mitigate its negative effects through government intervention.
2. Legislation like the Pure Food and Drug Act and the Meat Inspection Act exemplified progressivism.
3. In a speech to Congress, President Woodrow Wilson articulated America’s rationale for entering World War I. He cited Germany’s policy of unrestricted submarine warfare as a grave threat to all nations.
4. The Sedition Act of 1918 criminalized various actions during wartime. It prohibited the issuance of false reports, statements, or actions intended to interfere with military operations, obstruct bond sales, or incite insubordination.
5. On the eve of World War I, the U.S. government, under President Woodrow Wilson, initially maintained a strong stance against any entanglement in international military conflicts. The U.S. adhered to a policy of neutrality.
6. Life in the trenches during World War I was depicted as horrific. The trenches were characterized by pervasive mud, the constant presence of death, widespread rat infestations, and an overwhelming stench.

“Extending reform—US and the World” expansion of progressive spirit into foreign policy laid the groundwork for America’s role as a global power with a perceived moral obligation to spread democracy. These dual aspects of progressivism—domestic reform and international engagement—continue to influence debates about government’s role in society and global affairs. The “President Requests Congress Declare War” approach has influenced U.S. foreign policy, sparking debates about interventionism, humanitarian intervention, and global democracy. Collective security and a “concert of free nations” laid the groundwork for the League of Nations and later the United Nations, central to international diplomacy. “The Limits of Dissent” highlights the tension between national security and individual rights, a relevant debate in times of conflict. This historical precedent cautions against government overreach and suppressing dissent, impacting free speech protection. “The U.S. and World War I” shift from isolationism to intervention set a precedent for future U.S. involvement in global conflicts, influencing community understanding of America’s role. “Video, Life in the Trenches in WWI” highlights the suffering and psychological toll of prolonged conflict, informing PTSD and veteran support needs. The stark contrast between German and Allied trench conditions speaks to strategic planning and expectations for conflict duration, relevant to military logistics and preparedness.

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