Kaiser Wilhelm II Resumes Unrestricted Submarine Warfare

January 31st, 1917

January 31st, 1917

Kaiser Wilhelm II Resumes Unrestricted Submarine Warfare
How Long Ago?

108 years, 1 month, 15 days ago

Location

Germany

Category

Military & Warfare

War/Conflict

World War I

People
  • Kaiser Wilhelm II
  • Georg von Müller
  • Admiral Reinhard Scheer
Links & References
Tags

Kaiser Wilhelm II Resumes Unrestricted Submarine Warfare

Kaiser Wilhelm II announced the resumption of unrestricted submarine warfare in 1917, aiming to cut off supplies to Britain and France. This strategic decision was taken after careful consideration of naval capabilities and intended to finalize the Allied naval blockade. The German leadership believed this decisive action could turn the tide of the ongoing conflict by targeting enemy merchant ships without warning, thus potentially crippling Allied logistics.

U-boats targeted enemy ships without warning.

Launched a campaign against British supplies.

Risked inviting U.S. involvement in the war.

Signaled a shift in naval warfare tactics.

What Happened?

In January 1917, Kaiser Wilhelm II of Germany declared the resumption of unrestricted submarine warfare, a controversial military strategy employed by the Imperial German Navy. The decision aimed to impede shipping routes to the British Isles and support the ongoing war efforts against the Allies. This announcement marked a significant escalation in tactics as German submarines (U-boats) would target enemy shipping vessels without warning, in direct violation of pre-established maritime guidelines that required submarines to surface and let crews evacuate before sinking a ship.

The move was primarily motivated by the desire to alter the balance of power on the Western Front. German leaders sought to break the British blockade that was severely restricting supplies to Central Powers. By utilizing submarines effectively, they hoped to isolate Britain and France, undermining their capacity to continue the war. This decision was considered risky; while it would exert immediate pressure on the Allies, it also risked drawing the United States into the conflict due to attacks on civilian vessels like the Lusitania in 1915, which had already stirred public opinion against Germany.

Despite the risk, Germany remained steadfast, believing that a successful campaign of unrestricted submarine warfare could end the war swiftly in their favor. This strategy would significantly impact naval warfare and international relations, leading to further Allied advancements and reshaping wartime strategies.

Why Does it Matter?

The resumption of unrestricted submarine warfare greatly influenced the course of World War I, precipitating the United States' entry into the conflict in 1917. This decision intensified anti-German sentiment among American citizens and led to the U.S. government supporting the Allies to counter the submarine threat. The strategic shift not only changed military tactics at sea but also significantly affected diplomatic relations between the belligerent nations, ultimately altering the outcome of the war.

Discover More Historic Events from January 31st

Accidents & Tragedies

Med Jets Flight 056 crash in Philadelphia

January 31st, 2025 0 years ago

Med Jets Flight 056, a medical transport aircraft, crashed near Roosevelt Mall in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, resulting in the deaths of seven individuals and injuring 19 others. The aircraft was reportedly experiencing technical difficulties before the incident. Emergency services responded quickly, providing aid to victims on-site. The crash not only claimed lives but also raised urgent questions about aviation safety procedures for medical transports.

Continue Reading
Transportation & Infrastructure

Final Delivery of the Boeing 747

January 31st, 2023 2 years ago

On January 31, 2023, the last Boeing 747 was delivered to Atlas Air, marking the end of an era for the iconic aircraft that revolutionized air travel. The final unit, a 747-8F freight version, was handed over at Boeing's factory in Everett, Washington, cementing the aircraft's legacy in commercial aviation history. With over 1,500 units manufactured since its debut in 1968, the Boeing 747 was the first wide-body airliner, capable of carrying large numbers of passengers and cargo. The delivery ceremony included various officials and employees who celebrated this significant milestone in aviation.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Sue Gray Releases Initial Partygate Report

January 31st, 2022 3 years ago

Sue Gray, a senior civil servant, published an initial report addressing the Downing Street Partygate controversy, which involved alleged parties held at government premises during COVID-19 lockdowns. The report aimed to clarify the events that transpired and drew public scrutiny, potentially impacting government leadership. It highlighted the discrepancies between government messaging and actions taken within government buildings.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

UK Officially Exits the European Union

January 31st, 2020 5 years ago

After 47 years of membership, the United Kingdom officially ceased its membership in the European Union. The withdrawal process was formalized through Article 50 of the Lisbon Treaty, kicking off a significant transition period for both the UK and the EU. The culmination of years of negotiation and public debate, the event marked a new chapter in the UK's relationship with Europe and the wider world. Brexit, as it was commonly known, set the stage for changes in trade, immigration, and political dynamics across the continent.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Abdullah of Pahang Becomes Yang di-Pertuan Agong

January 31st, 2019 6 years ago

Abdullah of Pahang was ceremonially sworn in as the 16th Yang di-Pertuan Agong of Malaysia at Istana Negara. The King's oath was administered by the Chief Justice, and the ceremony was attended by various dignitaries including the country’s rulers. This event marked a significant constitutional role as he became the highest authority in the Malaysian monarchy, succeeding Sultan Muhammad V of Kelantan.

Continue Reading
Accidents & Tragedies

Tragic Oil Spillage Ignition Kills Many in Molo

January 31st, 2009 16 years ago

An oil spillage ignition in Molo, Kenya led to the deaths of at least 113 individuals, and over 200 people sustained injuries. The ignition occurred when a fuel tanker overturned, causing a massive fire that engulfed homes and businesses in the surrounding area. This disaster hit shortly after a deadly fire at a Nakumatt supermarket in Nairobi, which had claimed the lives of at least 25 people, highlighting ongoing safety concerns surrounding fuel management and infrastructure.

Continue Reading