Page:General History of Europe 1921.djvu/843

 CHAPTER XLVII FINAL STAGES OF THE WAR: THE RUSSIAN REVOLUTION I. ENTRANCE OF THE UNITED STATES INTO THE WAR 1138. Opinion in the United States. Early in the year 1917 Germany's submarine policy and reckless sinking of neutral ships finally involved her in war with a new antagonist, the great and powerful republic across the Atlantic. The government of the United States had been very patient and long-suffering. When the war broke out President Wilson declared that the government would observe strict neutrality, and he urged American citizens to avoid taking sides in a conflict that did not directly concern them. But it was impossible to remain indifferent when such tremendous events were being reported day by day. The German newspapers in the United States eagerly defended the Central Powers and laid the responsibility for the war at England's door. On the other hand, the great body of the American people were deeply shocked by the invasion of Belgium, by the burning of Louvain, and by the needless destruction of Rheims Cathedral by German guns. They disliked the arrogant talk of the kaiser, and they felt a quick sympathy for France, who had lent such essential aid in the American Revolution. Those of English descent naturally found themselves drawn to the side of England in the great struggle. 1139. Activity of German Agents. So the bitter feelings en- gendered by war began to show themselves immediately in the United States. German agents and spies were everywhere active, denouncing England and her allies and doing everything in their power to prejudice the people of the United States against Ger- many's foes. The German government stooped to the most shameful expedients. It even sent to its ambassador, Count von Bernstorff, funds with which to attempt to bribe Congress. 629