Question

question 3 of 10

which statement best describes how woodrow wilson built support for the war?

a. the committee on public information used propaganda to increase patriotism and turn public opinion against germany.
b. the committee on public information suppressed groups that opposed the war.
c. the committee on public information offered government bonds to pay for the war effort.
d. the committee on public information authorized the recruitment of people to help the war effort.

Explanation:

Identify the role of the Committee on Public Information

During World War I, President Woodrow Wilson created the Committee on Public Information (CPI), headed by George Creel. The primary objective of this agency was to mobilize public opinion behind the war effort.

Analyze the methods used to build support

The CPI utilized a massive propaganda campaign, including posters, pamphlets, speeches by "Four-Minute Men," and films. These materials were designed to foster intense patriotism, encourage enlistment and bond purchases, and depict Germany as a brutal enemy to unite the American public against them.

Evaluate the given options

• Option A correctly identifies that the CPI used propaganda to increase patriotism and turn public opinion against Germany.
• Option B is incorrect because, while dissent was suppressed during the war, that was primarily achieved through legislation like the Espionage and Sedition Acts, rather than the CPI's main function of positive/negative persuasion.
• Option C is incorrect because the Treasury Department, not the CPI, issued Liberty Bonds, though the CPI helped promote them.
• Option D is incorrect because the CPI was not a recruitment or mobilization agency for labor or military personnel.

Answer:

• (A) The Committee on Public Information used propaganda to increase patriotism and turn public opinion against Germany. (Correct answer)
• (B) The Committee on Public Information suppressed groups that opposed the war.
• (C) The Committee on Public Information offered government bonds to pay for the war effort.
• (D) The Committee on Public information authorized the recruitment of people to help the war effort.