Before entering World War I, the United States generally pursued which stance?

Before entering World War I, the United States generally pursued which stance?

• A. The United States joined the Allies in 1917
• B. The United States supported the Central Powers
• C. The United States pursued neutrality at first
• D. The United States declared war in 1915

Answer: (C)

Neutrality at first. When World War I broke out, the United States chose to stay out of the fighting and avoid backing any one European power, focusing instead on protecting its own interests and keeping trade open with all sides. This stance was reinforced by a long-standing preference to avoid entangling alliances. The U.S. did not declare war or align with the Allies or the Central Powers early on; it entered the war later, in 1917, after events like unrestricted submarine warfare and other provocations pushed the country toward involvement on the side of the Allies.

Neutrality at first. When World War I broke out, the United States chose to stay out of the fighting and avoid backing any one European power, focusing instead on protecting its own interests and keeping trade open with all sides. This stance was reinforced by a long-standing preference to avoid entangling alliances. The U.S. did not declare war or align with the Allies or the Central Powers early on; it entered the war later, in 1917, after events like unrestricted submarine warfare and other provocations pushed the country toward involvement on the side of the Allies.