On April 14, 2018, former Vice President Joe Biden gave a speech at the Iowa Democratic Party's annual dinner. His Iowa speech comes days after Donald Trump criticized him for plagiarizing his campaign slogan 'Great American Comeback.' Despite the controversy, Biden's speech focused on American values and patriotism. He cited the example of Woodrow Wilson, who led the country through World War I and promoted democracy and freedom.
On this day in 1917, President Woodrow Wilson learned of a shocking piece of paper that made America's entry into World War I inevitable. The Zimmermann Telegram, sent by Germany to Mexico, proposed a military alliance between the two countries if the United States entered the war. Wilson had previously pursued a policy of neutrality, but the telegram convinced him that America's national security was at risk.
As the United States entered World War I, President Wilson and Congress sought to silence vocal and written opposition to U.S. involvement. They passed the Espionage Act of 1917 and the Sedition Act of 1918, which made it illegal to interfere with the war effort or criticize the government. These laws were controversial and led to the prosecution of many anti-war activists and journalists.
Just days after the United States joined World War I, former President Teddy Roosevelt dropped by the White House to see the sitting President, Woodrow Wilson. Roosevelt, a military veteran and a strong advocate for American exceptionalism, offered to lead a division of troops into battle. Wilson declined his offer, but the meeting demonstrated the unity of the country in the face of war.
Presidents Day was initially created to observe the birthday of our first president, George Washington. But nowadays, we use it to celebrate all U.S. presidents, including Woodrow Wilson. Wilson was a progressive reformer who championed women's suffrage, labor rights, and international cooperation. He also led the country through the tumultuous years of World War I.
Franklin Delano Roosevelt and Harry Truman both served as president during World War II, but Roosevelt spent the majority of time in office. Roosevelt's leadership during the war is often compared to Wilson's leadership during World War I. Both men faced similar challenges, including balancing domestic needs with international obligations and navigating complex alliances with other countries.
In March, as President Biden was facing pressure to intensify U.S. involvement in Ukraine, he responded by invoking the specter of World War III. Biden warned that Russian aggression in Ukraine could lead to a wider conflict, similar to World War I or II. His comments reflected the enduring legacy of the two world wars and the importance of international cooperation and diplomacy.
If I had been just a year or two older, I might have been called to serve in the Vietnam War. I think that's one reason why I'm so interested in books and movies about war. Woodrow Wilson's leadership during World War I is a fascinating example of how a president can navigate a complex global conflict and lead a country through difficult times. His legacy continues to inspire us today.
