Germany Resumes Unrestricted Submarine Warfare

Historical Significance and Background

In 1917, amidst the ongoing First World War, Germany resumed unrestricted submarine warfare. This decision became a significant factor in the United States' entry into the war later that year.

Since the beginning of the First World War, Germany had been using unrestricted submarine warfare as a strategy against England. This tactic aimed to weaken England economically by sinking merchant ships. However, in 1915, the sinking of the American passenger ship Lusitania by German submarines resulted in the loss of 128 American lives. This incident created a great deal of anger in the American public and led to a reaction against Germany.

Nevertheless, in 1916, Germany suspended unrestricted submarine warfare after the Sussex incident in an attempt to prevent the United States from entering the war. However, in 1917, Germany resumed unrestricted submarine warfare in order to quickly end the war.

Development of the Event

Commencement of Unrestricted Submarine Warfare

On February 1, 1917, Germany resumed unrestricted submarine warfare against warships and merchant ships. German submarines were now able to attack and sink any ships; warships, hospital ships, merchant ships, and even ships belonging to neutral countries became targets.

United States' Entry into the War

Germany's resumption of unrestricted submarine warfare became a significant reason for the United States to enter the war. The American government protested the losses of merchant ships and civilian lives caused by German submarines. Additionally, the Zimmerman Telegram, which revealed Germany's proposal of an alliance with Mexico against the United States, further increased the American public's support for entering the war.

On April 6, 1917, the United States officially declared war on Germany. This was a pivotal turning point that altered the balance of power in the First World War.

Consequences and Effects

The commencement of unrestricted submarine warfare and the United States' entry into the war deeply impacted the outcomes of the war.

Short-Term Effects

Germany's unrestricted submarine warfare resulted in significant disruptions to trade with England. Many ships were sunk, and the transportation of trade goods became more difficult. This put a strain on England's economy and prolonged the war.

Furthermore, the attacks of German submarines on American ships also affected the American economy. After entering the war, America had to use sea routes to transport war materials and military troops to Europe, making this transportation process hazardous.

Long-Term Consequences

At the end of the First World War, Germany and its allies were defeated. During the post-war peace negotiations, unrestricted submarine warfare and the United States' entry into the war were significant issues. Germany faced harsh conditions as a result of the outcomes of the war and was held responsible for the consequences of unrestricted submarine warfare.

Social and Political Changes

The conclusion of the First World War brought about significant changes in international relations. The war led to the formation of a new order on an international level and resulted in substantial social and political changes.

Additionally, unrestricted submarine warfare and the United States' entry into the war had lasting effects on maritime and war laws. International maritime law was strengthened with the introduction of new rules and regulations regarding submarine warfare and attacks on civilian ships, as seen in the Geneva Conventions.

Historical Significance and Relevance to the Present

The commencement of unrestricted submarine warfare and the United States' entry into the war are significant events that altered the course of the First World War. These events hold great importance in both historical and contemporary contexts.

In the modern world, unrestricted submarine warfare and the United States' entry into the war have influenced the course of international relations and warfare. The devastating effects of submarine warfare and the consequences of the United States' entry into the war have prompted a greater focus on war laws and ethical rules by the international community.

Moreover, the international organizations and treaties established in the aftermath of the First World War have shaped the post-war order. The experiences during this period have inspired the creation of organizations such as the United Nations, aimed at promoting international peace and security.

The commencement of unrestricted submarine warfare and the United States' entry into the war are important events that have been analyzed and debated by contemporary historians and political experts. These events have helped us understand the complexities of the First World War and draw various lessons from it.