Germany sought to break up the French-Russian alliance and was fully prepared to take the risk that this would bring about a major war. Some in the German elite welcomed the prospect of beginning an expansionist war of conquest. The response of Russia, France and later Britain were reactive and defensive.

They hoped to break the British stranglehold blockade of crucial German supply ports and knock Britain out of the war within the year. U-boats resumed unrestricted attacks against all ships in the Atlantic, including civilian passenger carriers.

What were effects of the Civil War on the nation's economy? The National Bank Act (which made baking safer), North economy boomed, South was devastated economically, there was no slavery in the south, farming tools were destroyed, and the gap between Northern and Southern economy grew.

How did the war between France and Britain in the mid-1790s affect American business? Many French and British merchant ships remained at home to avoid being destroyed or captured by enemy ships. This allowed American shippers to increase trade.

Which statement explains why a German submarine sunk the Lusitania? Germany practiced unrestricted submarine warfare.

What was Germany's greatest problem at the beginning of the war? It had begun a two-front war with Russia and France. A Communist revolution threatened to overthrow the Kaiser.