Why We Are at War

What it is

This book collects Woodrow Wilson's messages to Congress and the American people from January to April 1917, along with his proclamation of war. It was published in 1917 by Harper & Brothers and brings together his own words explaining the path to American entry into World War I.

Why it matters

These are Wilson's own arguments, written and delivered by him as president, for why the United States had to abandon neutrality and join the war. They show how he justified the decision to the public and to Congress, and reveal the reasoning and language a leader used to move a reluctant nation toward war.

Look closer

• Why might Wilson have wanted these messages published together as a book?
• What kind of language does he use to persuade readers that war is necessary?
• What might be left out of a collection that only includes the president's own words?