Question

what is the best summary of the first paragraph of \how we entered world war i\?
the united states was not considered a great power until it entered world war i, thus beginning its continual involvement in world affairs.
the spanish-american war gave the united states a basis of power so it could enter world war i as a great power.
the united states entered world war i as a great power but has not influenced world affairs in the same way since.
the united states has always been considered a great power, despite its desire to withdraw from world affairs.

Explanation:

To determine the best summary, we analyze each option:

• Option 1: The first paragraph of "How We Entered World War I" likely conveys that the US wasn't a great power until WWI, after which it began continuous world affairs involvement. This aligns with historical context.
• Option 2: The Spanish - American War's role in giving power for WWI entry is not the main focus of the first paragraph's summary.
• Option 3: The claim that the US hasn't influenced world affairs similarly since WWI is incorrect and not supported by the text's first paragraph.
• Option 4: The US was not always considered a great power, so this option is factually wrong.

Answer:

The United States was not considered a great power until it entered World War I, thus beginning its continual involvement in world affairs.