Final answer:
President Woodrow Wilson aimed to keep the U.S. neutral at the onset of WWI through neutrality in name and fact, impartiality in thought and action, curbing sentiments, and no preference for any party in the conflict, maintaining open markets and commercial ties with all involved.
Step-by-step explanation:
President Woodrow Wilson's commitment to neutrality during the tumultuous early days of World War I was defined by four key principles that he believed the United States must adhere to. These principles were:
- Neutrality in name and fact: This meant that the United States would not take any official side in the conflict.
- Impartiality in thought and action: Wilson stressed the need for Americans to avoid taking psychological sides which could manifest in actions that might compromise actual neutrality.
- Curbing sentiments: Recognizing the diverse population of the United States, with many citizens having roots in the belligerent nations, Wilson knew that personal sentiments could lead to internal division and conflict.
- No preference for one party in the struggle over another: This extended to behaviors and policies that might show favoritism, such as trade restrictions or military aid.
This framework was intended to enable the United States to maintain commercial ties with all belligerents and insist on open markets throughout Europe, while not getting entangled in the warfare itself. Despite these efforts for neutrality, the war's progression and events such as the Zimmerman Telegram and unrestricted submarine warfare would eventually challenge and change U.S. policy.