Once lead this people into war and they will forget there ever was such a thing as tolerance

Once lead this people into war and they will forget there ever was such a thing as tolerance

Woodrow Wilson, the 28th President of the United States, is often remembered for his idealistic vision of a world at peace through diplomacy and cooperation. However, his presidency was also marked by his decision to lead the United States into World War I, a conflict that would forever change the course of history. Wilson's famous quote, "Once lead this people into war and they will forget there ever was such a thing as tolerance," speaks to the transformative power of war on a nation and its people.

Wilson's decision to enter World War I was not taken lightly. At the outbreak of the war in Europe in 1914, Wilson declared the United States to be neutral, hoping to avoid being drawn into the conflict. However, as the war dragged on and the German government's policy of unrestricted submarine warfare threatened American lives and interests, Wilson was forced to reconsider his position. In April 1917, he asked Congress to declare war on Germany, citing the need to make the world "safe for democracy."

Wilson believed that by entering the war, the United States could help bring about a lasting peace based on the principles of justice and self-determination. He saw the war as an opportunity to promote his vision of a new world order, one in which nations would work together to prevent future conflicts. However, the reality of war would prove to be far more brutal and destructive than Wilson could have imagined.

As American troops were sent to fight in Europe, the nation was swept up in a wave of patriotism and nationalism. The war effort required sacrifices from all Americans, from rationing food and fuel to sending loved ones off to battle. The government cracked down on dissent and opposition to the war, passing laws like the Espionage Act and the Sedition Act to silence critics. In the heat of war, tolerance for dissent and diversity of opinion gave way to a fervent nationalism that brooked no opposition.

Wilson's quote, "Once lead this people into war and they will forget there ever was such a thing as tolerance," captures the transformation that took place in American society during World War I. The war brought out the best and worst in the American people, inspiring acts of heroism and sacrifice, but also fueling xenophobia and intolerance. The lessons of tolerance and diplomacy that Wilson had championed before the war were overshadowed by the demands of total war.