Skip to main content

This Day in American History

April 6

1 historic event on this date

Historical1917

United States Enters World War I

Congress declared war on Germany, bringing the United States into World War I after years of neutrality. President Woodrow Wilson asked Congress to make the world "safe for democracy," framing American involvement as a crusade for democratic ideals.

Why It Matters

U.S. entry into the war marked America's emergence as a global power and raised fundamental questions about democratic governance, wartime civil liberties, and the nation's role in the world.

Explore the Principles Behind the History

Every event in American history connects to the founding principles. Discover the ideas that shaped these moments.

View the 28 Founding Principles