However, maintaining a neutral stance became increasingly challenging as the war progressed and its geopolitical implications became more pronounced. The United States had trade relations with both the Allied Powers (France, Britain, and later Russia) and the Central Powers (Germany and Austria-Hungary), and there was a considerable debate over the potential consequences of providing aid or support to either side.
While the United States initially remained officially neutral, public sympathy and support for the Allied Powers began to grow as the war intensified. Germany's use of unrestricted submarine warfare and its sinking of neutral merchant vessels, such as the Lusitania in 1915, caused outrage in the United States. The increasing danger to American lives and commercial interests led to a shift in public opinion toward intervention in support of the Allies.
Despite these shifting attitudes, the United States continued to officially adhere to neutrality until 1917. President Wilson actively sought to promote peace negotiations and mediated between warring parties, expressing a desire to avoid unnecessary conflict. However, tensions escalated with Germany following its declaration of unrestricted submarine warfare, which threatened American shipping and the lives of American citizens.
In February 1917, Germany's resumption of unrestricted submarine warfare and its attempt to forge an alliance with Mexico against the United States pushed the country to the brink of war. President Wilson delivered a speech to Congress requesting a declaration of war, citing the imperative of defending the nation's rights, principles, and sovereignty. On April 6, 1917, the United States formally entered World War I, marking a significant turning point in its foreign policy and global involvement.