Day 3 – World War I

The next critical time in history was the First World War and the change in the subject and tone of  the addresses during this time is fascinating. In 1914 war broke out in Europe and America declared its neutrality saying they would aid if necessary but not get involved. This address mentioned how the war in Europe was hampering trade but the finances were still healthy. A sign of things to come was the request to increase the quantity of merchant and navy ships and to prepare for war. But Americans were also told ‘We are at peace with the World’. Again, what didn’t seem to add up was the request for everyone to volunteer for military training if America was not, nor intended to be, joining the war.

This remained the clear message in 1915, with the address stating that America was remaining steadfast in her neutrality. However, once again the army was increased, and citizens were asked to enlist in the army and navy. It was clear there was a concern of attack as the President stated that the army and navy were not big enough to protect the country. As a means of funding all of this, taxes were introduced / raised on petrol, cars and cheques. The pacific railroad, mentioned above, was causing a problem for the government due to work hours, conditions etc.

By 1916 the main focus of the address was the railroad issue. A legal 8 hour work day was decided with minimum wage for railroad employees. Very little was mentioned about the war in Europe other than it would be a government right to acquire railroad material and staff for military use if necessary.

1917 and all hell breaks loose, America is now at war with the Germans but not with her allies. This was to come at a later date. Most of the address focused on this war and by the 1918 address, the war was over with the address stating that it was thanks to the USA. To learn more about World War I check this out --> A World Undone: The Story of the Great War, 1914 to 1918

The railroads were still causing problems and taxes were to be increased. Most interestingly, it was decided that lands in the west would be claimed. So far the Pacific railroad has been in nearly every address I have read so I am off to get this and find out what was really going on, I bet it is a fascinating story --> Sunset Limited: The Southern Pacific Railroad and the Development of the American West, 1850-1930