Why was neutrality a difficult policy for the United States to maintain?

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History

Richard Copeland

19 October, 22:52

Why was neutrality a difficult policy for the United States to maintain?

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Deanna Montes · Answer 1

Depending on the time period, America had a difficult time remaining neutral for several reasons.

World War I

America had a difficult time remaining neutral during World War I because of Germany's actions. For example, the German submarine sank the Lusitania, a boat that contained over 100 American citizens. Along with this, the Germans were also caught trying to make a secret alliance with Mexico. This was exposed when the Allied powers intercepted the Zimmerman Telegram. Considering these factors, the government felt the US had no choice but to break their neutrality and enter World War I.

World War II

The US had a difficult time maintaining neutral in World War II due to the violence and rise of dictators like Hitler. Along with this, the US was also attacked by the Japanese military. The Japanese military bombed Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. This attack on a military base prompted the US to break their policy of neutrality in order to enter World War II.