History short letter 3.05

World War I brought enormous changes to warfare and to the lives of millions of people. Complete one of the following written assignments to show your understanding of these changes.

Option A: Put yourself in the position of a U.S. soldier or American relief worker during World War I. Write a letter home of at least three paragraphs explaining where you are and how you came to be there. Describe what you see, what you smell, what you hear, and what surrounds you. Explain how your experiences have affected you and what you hope to accomplish.

Your letter must answer questions, including the following:

Where are you fighting or working? Are you fighting in the trenches, working in a hospital, or doing some other kind of task?
Why are you where you are? Did you volunteer for service or were you conscripted? If you volunteered, what did you hope to accomplish? If you were drafted, how do you feel about the process?
What are your comrades like? Are you fighting with U.S. or French troops? Are you working with doctors and nurses? Do your comrades accept and respect you?
What might be unique about your experiences? How are they similar to those had by other Americans fighting or working abroad?
Have you come in contact with any of the new technologies of WWI? Which ones? How did this affect your experience in Europe?
How has your experience changed the way you see yourself? How has it changed the way you see others?
Option B: Respond to each of the following questions in a complete paragraph of your own words. Be sure to include supporting details from this lesson in your responses.

How did the new technologies of WWI affect soldiers fighting on the front lines? Please include at least three examples of new technologies in your answer.
How did women get involved in the war effort abroad? Please include at least two examples in your answer.
How was the war experience of a minority soldier different from that of a white soldier? Please include at least three examples in your response.