Colonialism in global conflict: Liberia’s entry and participation in World War One

Abstract

ABSTRACTOn 10 April 1918, Germany assaulted Monrovia in retaliation for Liberia’s entry into World War One. While the Liberian government could not and did not resist the attack, it remained committed to the principles that it professed during the war: political autonomy, for itself and other small nations, and resistance against German and wider imperial aggression. Liberia, therefore, saw itself as an active, if minimal, participant in World War One and refused to exit the conflict when Germany attacked its capital that morning. Unlike much previous scholarship, this article argues that Liberia, as an independent nation, choose to cut off relations and later go to war with Germany, and, at least nominally, supported the Allies throughout the war. More specifically, Liberia entered World War One on the side of the Allies for three main reasons: a frustration with German aggression; a desperate financial situation overwhelming the government; and finally, a desire to establish better security within and on its borders. In making these arguments, this article considers Liberia’s relationship and colonial situation with the United States, its long and complicated history with Germany, its decision to cut off relations and enter World War One, and finally its role in the conflict and its conclusion.