Based on this excerpt, which two events could be seen as primary factors in President Wilson’s decision to declare war?
A) Germany’s monarchical system of government
B) Nicholas II abdicating the Russian throne
C) President Wilson’s campaign promises
D) Pleading by pacifists such as John Adams
E) German U-boat attacks on American ships
The correct answers are C) President Wilson’s campaign promises and E) German U-boat attacks on American ships.
Explanation: President Wilson had campaigned on maintaining neutrality and keeping the U.S. out of the war, but the situation changed due to the German U-boat attacks that threatened American lives and ships. This aggressive action directly influenced his decision, as it violated neutral rights and fueled public support for intervention. Additionally, the broken promises of neutrality contradicted what he had promised during his campaign, leading to a shift in his stance on entering the war.
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