World War I Essay Questions
Choose 1 question from the following list. Your essay should be 2-3 pages, doublespaced, 1 inch margins, 12 pt. font (Times New Roman). Your paper must contain a
thesis and answer all parts of the question. Use specific facts, details, and information to
support your thesis. Use in-text citations to cite others’ ideas or facts that aren’t
common knowledge. Include at least 3 sources, one of which must be a primary
source and one of which may be your textbook. Include a bibliography/works cited
page at the end. Above all, let me see thought and analysis.
How did new technology in WWI influence warfare? Do you think this was (and
continues to be) a positive or negative influence? Explain your answer with specific
examples and details.
How did a need for power and control help influence and start WWI? Consider the
causes of WWI and the countries involved. Where does the U.S. fit into this question?
Explain your answer with specific examples and details.
How did interdependency (alliances) help lead to world conflict? Was it strictly the
alliance system that led to war or would war have happened even without the alliance
systems?
How can dissatisfaction with government ideals result in the formation of a new
government? (think Russian Revolution) Use specific examples and details to answer the
question.
Are peaceful or violent revolutions more successful in the short run? Long run? Why?
Consider your answer in terms of the Russian Revolution, though you may consider
peripheral revolutions as well. Use specific examples and details to answer the question.
Which 3 battles of WWI do you think were most significant? Why do you think they
were most significant? Be sure to describe each battle and provide specific examples and
details in your answer.
You are Woodrow Wilson and have the task of coming up with 14 points to maintain
world peace and prevent further world conflicts. Provide your 14 points and back them
up with sound reason, logic, examples, and detail.
Identify, give a brief biographical sketch, and explain why one of the following
individuals was significant in World War I. Use specific examples and details in your
answer. Alvin York, Eddie Rickenbacker, Kaiser Wilhelm, Baron von Richthofen,
Ferdinand Foch, John J. Pershing, Vladimir Lenin.