The document summarizes the key events that drew the United States into World War I despite President Wilson's initial goal of neutrality. Several provocations including the sinking of the Lusitania passenger ship in 1915, the Zimmerman Telegram sent by Germany in 1917, and Germany's declaration of unrestricted submarine warfare increased tensions and swayed public opinion towards supporting American entry into the war. By April 1917, President Wilson asked Congress to declare war on Germany, arguing it was necessary to "Make the World Safe for Democracy."