CHAPTER 14 HOMEWORK
Although America had embraced the concept of neutrality while simultaneously formulating a preparedness program, the sinking of the Luisitania, a British passenger liner in 1915, was a major step toward United States participation in World War I. This vessel, although viewed as peaceful, was sunk by a German U-Boat (unterseeboot) within the Irish Sea. Since 128 of the passengers aboard the vessel that died were Americans, the American media referred to the Germans as "barbaric." The Germans countered with the statemetn that the passengers had been warned prior to their voyage. Historically, Americans and Germans know that the Lusitatnia was secretly carrying munitions in its hull.