Final answer:
Woodrow Wilson used the campaign slogan "He Kept Us Out of the War" to win the presidential election of 1916, emphasizing neutrality during World War I and securing a narrow victory against Charles Evans Hughes.
Step-by-step explanation:
Wilson's 1916 Election Slogan
The slogan Woodrow Wilson used to win the presidential election of 1916 was "He Kept Us Out of the War." This slogan effectively captured the sentiment of American voters who were, at the time, eager to remain neutral in the face of World War I. Despite the pressure to support the Allied forces, Wilson's reelection campaign capitalized on his neutral stance and the fact that under his leadership, America had not entered the war. The campaign message resonated with a country that was not yet ready to engage in the overseas conflict, ultimately leading to Wilson's narrow victory over Charles Evans Hughes.
National Defense Act of 1916
Despite running on a platform of neutrality, Wilson did lay the groundwork for military preparedness. During the year before the election, Wilson supported the National Defense Act of 1916 and the Naval Appropriations Act, effectively strengthening the U.S. military, which appeased some constituents who favored a stronger stance in support of the Allied countries.
Shift in Political Priorities
Although focusing on neutrality was key to Wilson's reelection, his Progressive legacy also included significant domestic accomplishments. As a Progressive, Wilson tackled the 'triple wall of privilege' and enacted reforms that aimed to regulate tariffs, trusts, and high finance. However, as World War I progressed, the focus shifted from Progressive reforms to national security and the war effort.