Lusitania and U.S.-German Relations

The video discusses the U.S. stance of neutrality during World War I, highlighting the complexities of this position as Germany issued warnings to travelers about the dangers of the war zone. The Lusitania, a British passenger ship, was advertised alongside these warnings, leading to its sinking by a German U-boat. This event, which involved the loss of civilian lives and the smuggling of munitions, escalated tensions and contributed to the U.S. eventually entering the war. The video also touches on the Sussex Pledge, which required German U-boats to surface and warn before attacking merchant ships.

What was the initial stance of the United States during World War I?

• Allied with Germany

• Allied with Britain

• Aggressive

• Neutral

What did Germany use to threaten ships crossing the Atlantic during World War I?

• Aircraft

• Battleships

• Submarines

• Tanks

Who issued the warning notice about the dangers in the war zone near the British Isles?

• Great Britain

• France

• Germany

• The United States

What was the main message of the German warning notice?

• Travelers are safe in the war zone

• Travelers should avoid the war zone at their own risk

• The war zone is closed to all ships

• The war zone is only dangerous for military ships

What was the Lusitania advertised as in the newspaper?

• A cargo ship

• A passenger cruise ship

• A fishing vessel

• A military ship

What happened to the Lusitania after it was warned by a German submarine?

• It turned back to New York

• It was sunk by torpedoes

• It reached its destination safely

• It was captured by the British

What was found on board the Lusitania that contributed to its rapid sinking?

• Gold

• Passengers

• Food supplies

• Munitions

What was the Sussex Pledge?

• A promise by Germany to warn ships before attacking

• A promise by Britain to protect all ships

• A promise by Germany to stop all submarine warfare

• A promise by the U.S. to join the war

Why did the United States stop trading with Germany in 1915?

• Due to a trade embargo by Britain

• Because Germany declared war on the U.S.

• Due to a lack of resources

• Because of the sinking of the Lusitania

What was the impact of the Lusitania sinking on U.S.-German relations?

• It led to an immediate declaration of war

• It worsened relations

• It had no impact

• It improved relations