American involvement in World War I is often seen in the popular imagination as a gesture of patriotism -- us vs. them -- in which every American is for the war. In looking at the historical record, however, we find that there was significant national debate about whether the U.S. should enter the war, and, after the U.S. had entered the war, whether it was the right thing to do. In this session, you will examine the different arguments in the debate over whether the U.S. should intervene in WWI. You will also focus on strategies that encourage students to analyze non-text primary sources -- particularly materials such as WWI recruitment posters that have an imbedded message -- to help them interpret the message and become cognizant of point of view.

Content Focus

After completing this session, you will be able to:

• identify diverse opinions (from men's and women's groups, African Americans, and others) regarding America's intervention in WWI;
• understand the debate surrounding American intervention in WWI and understand the arguments proffered by American interventionists and non-interventionists from this period; and
• make comparisons between World War I intervention arguments and similar arguments surrounding intervention/engagement in major conflicts in U.S. history and in more recent times.

Strategy Focus

After completing this session, you will be able to:

• evaluate government propaganda related to WWI, and explore some of the myths that emerged as a result of this material;
• analyze non-text primary sources, particularly propaganda materials, to understand their message and particular point of view; and
• develop an activity in which you help students begin to analyze propaganda materials on their own.