In this comparison, American preparation differed before the two world wars. In 1917 the United States entered after paying too little attention to the conflict and immediately needed equipment from other powers. Before the Second World War, continued work on technology and training left it better placed when intervention came. The comparison turns earlier mobilization history into a direct warning about the London Treaty's assumption that armed strength could be rebuilt only when danger became unmistakable.
Notable Point · 11:55-12:36
America's First World War mobilization offers a warning
America's late, underprepared entry into the First World War illustrates the cost of waiting until conflict begins to invest in military capability.