Jamaya johnson
U.S History
March 7, 2024
The Dominance of Military Support
The U.S. Contribution to Allied Powers in World War
During World War I, the United States was a critical ally to the Allied powers, primarily
through military support. While economic aid undoubtedly played a role, the documents
provided show the importance of the U.S. military contribution in securing victories in favor of
the Allies.
Document 5, Corporal Elmer Sherwood’s journal entry, shows the picture of the American
Expeditionary Force’s successes during the St. Mihiel offensive. Sherwood’s account exudes a
sense optimism, because of the advancement of American troops, and the assertion of superiority
in the air. Showing the impact of American military power on the battlefield.
Similarly Document 6, featuring an order from Brigadier General William Mitchell, further
emphasizes the critical role of the American air service in supporting ground troops and
engaging enemy forces. Mitchell’s commendation of the American air service’s achievements
also shows the significance of air power in modern warfare and its contribution to the overall
Allied military strategy.
While economic aid undoubtedly played a supportive role, the emphasis on military success in
the documents suggests that the U.S. military contribution was the one of the main reasons of
Allied victories. Quotes such as, “You must protect them and show them the way forward. Work
closely with them, because only by the combined work of all arms will our full power be
developed,” from Document 6, accentuate the importance of military efforts and air power with
ground operations. That quote being a reason to reinforce the idea that military collaboration and
effectiveness were important in achieving strategic objectives.
In contrast, while economic assistance provided crucial resources, it lacked the impact and
strategic importance of military engagements. While economic aid sustained Allied economies
and supported logistical capabilities, it didn't directly influence the outcome of battles or the
course of military campaigns the same way as military operations.
In conclusion, while economic support 100 percent played a role, the documents provided prove
that the United States supported its Allied partners most significantly through its military
contributions during World War I.
Works sited
Documents 5 and 6