What was happening in the United States and in Europe at this time?

Depends which era you are talking about.

Explanation:

Mid 1700's:

- U. S. gains independence fights over it then goes into a state of isolationism

1800's is the whole era of expansion and civil war Europe nothing major happens

In World War I USA is still in isolation while Europe is having a World War

Then the USA sent troops and supplies then was a great depression then another World War II and now just conflict everyday