Germany was winning its war on the Eastern Front with Russia surrendering in March 1918. However, it was losing on the Western Front. Its own allies had quit, soldier morale was low, and frustration was spreading at home. Despite publicly telling its people that the German army remained strong and committed, the High Command realized that Germany could not win the war. It recommended to the Reichstag, its parliament, to make peace.
Watch this video, which describes the poor conditions Germany faced in the army and at home. Combined with what seemed to be a steady stream of U.S. troops, Germany had no choice but to end the war. As you watch and then read the video transcript, pay attention to how Wilson’s Fourteen Points influenced the Germans’ plans for surrender.
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Review what you've learned so far about U.S. involvement in World War I. Click Review It to start.