GERMANY DECLARES WAR ON THE US: A LOOK BACK AT OUR CONFLICTS
In modern times, Germany and the United States continue to forge an ever growing important relationship. Both are a part of NATO and engage in trade together. But there was a time in which both nations didn’t see eye-to-eye. Germany declares war on the US in an event that would change the course of Europe. However, there’s more to our fighting history than World War 1 and World War 2.Suggested read: 29 of the Best Military Movies in 2024
When Did Germany Declare War on the US?
On December 11, 1941, Nazi Germany declared war on the US. This is shortly after America declared war on Imperial Japan following the Pearl Harbor attack. While a shocking decision to many experts at the time, the move was because of provocations by the U.S. government while it was still officially neutral in WWII.It was also to show solidarity with its ally Imperial Japan. However, Adolf Hitler made this decision seemingly spontaneously and without much consultation. In the end, it would go down to become considered one of his most enigmatic choices of WWII.The formal declaration was conveyed by German Foreign Minister Joachim von Ribbentrop to American Chargé d'Affaires Leland B. Morris. On the same day, the U.S. reciprocated, as Germany's move eliminated any remaining domestic opposition to America joining the European war.
Why Did Germany Declare War on the US?
Germany declared war on the United States due to its alliance with Japan, solidified by the Tripartite Pact, also known as the Berlin Act, which obligated mutual defense in case of an attack on any signatory nation.However, there were many other issues that the Nazis already had with the U.S. This includes the idea of solidifying its relationship with Japan, the goal of strengthening the Axis, and the assistance from America to the Allies that began in September 1940.
Additional Conflicts With German Fighters and Americans
Germany declares war on the United States in World War II and the conflict takes quite a turn. It would take quite some time to repair after achieving victory and dealing with the rise of Communism that split the country, but we’re back on good terms these days.However, there are multiple conflicts that have involved Germany and the U.S. This includes battles between warfighters before both nations were as recognized as they are today. Here’s how these conflicts broke down:
World War I
The US declares war on Germany in WW1 after a number of attacks from the nation’s U-boat initiatives in the ocean. American and neutral ships were being attacked and the sinking of the RMS Lusitania helped garner support for involvement. By the time the Zimmermann Telegram was intercepted, the nation had already had enough, and war ultimately became inevitable.
The American Revolution
Although the main belligerents were the newly forming Americans fending off Great Britain, many other nations and regions took place in the conflict. Rented by England, the Hessians were a group that was basically mercenary warriors assisting the Redcoats. Though this was before the time in which Germany was the country we know today, Hessian fighters hailed from the German state of Hesse-Cassel.Related read: 8 Inventions During the Civil War That Stood the Test of Time
Germany Declared War on USA and It Cost Them Victory
America didn’t come in and do it all. That would be disrespectful to the other nations, such as Great Britain and the Soviet Union, that also fought the Nazis on the battlefield. But it’s undeniable that American involvement was a critical mistake.Nazi Germany had some successes against the Soviets but the tides eventually changed. Taking on too many nations with the willpower, means of production, and strength to win the war would ultimately be the downfall of the Nazis.Germany declares war on the US. Thanks to the many, many sacrifices of those brave warriors, Europe, and the world is liberated from the grasp of Nazi influence.Read next: State of Texas Proposition 6 Highlights National Guard Frustrations Coauthored by Allison Kirschbaum