The United States initially adopted a policy of neutrality in World War I. However, several factors led the U.S. to enter the war in 1917, including German attacks on American ships and the interception of the Zimmermann Telegram proposing a German-Mexican alliance against the U.S. American involvement had significant impacts at home, such as increased war production, rationing of food and materials, growth of unions, and greater roles for women. U.S. forces under General Pershing helped achieve an Allied victory in 1918 through fighting alongside French troops.

1. U.S. Involvement in WWI 10-1 American History Benchmark D: Connect developments related to World War I.