Unraveling Freedom

Unraveling Freedom
By Ann Bausum
National Geographic, 2010. 88 pgs. Young Adult Nonfiction

While the United States entered World War I after an impassioned speech by President Woodrow Wilson, who stated that the U.S. needed to fight for freedom, ironically, the U.S.'s involvement in the war led to limited freedoms at home. With the passage of the Espionage Act, the Sedition Act, and the Alien Act, democratic freedoms were lessened, particularly for those of German descent. With the denouncement of Germany and all things German, anyone with connections to Germany could be suspected of being a spy or a traitor to the United States.

This book is fabulously illustrated and highly informative. Readers will definitely come away with a better understanding of how the U.S. was affected by their involvement in World War I and decisions by the government. Additionally, a brief section at the end of the book explains similar actions taken during other U.S. conflicts, helping readers see how these patterns may be repeated throughout history. This book was a pleasure to read and is very teen-friendly, particularly in regard to the format.

AE