FIRST WORLD WAR DIARY APRIL 1917 WORLD MAP

APRIL 1917: After much political deliberation, the United States of America enters the Great War on the side of Britain, France and the wider Allies. In France, a long awaited offensive is launched, Lenin arrives at the centre of revolution in Russia, and further success is had in Mesopotamia.

WAR AT SEA:

3 April: The minesweeper, HMS Jason, is sunk by a mine laid by U-78 off Coll Island, Scotland. Twenty-five are killed.

10 April: The hospital ship HMHS Salta strikes a mine laid by UC-26 off Le Havre and sinks in heavy seas in seven minutes, drowning 130 passengers and crew. The patrol boat HMS P-26 attempts to rescue survivors, but also hits a mine and sinks. A minesweeper later picks up those still in the water.

HOME FRONT:

5 April German seaplanes attack vessels off Ramsgate, the following night aircraft unsuccessfully bomb Kentish coastal towns.

UNITED STATES:

6 April: Following a special session of Congress on 2 April, the United States of America officially declares war on Germany. Cuba and Panama also declare war on Germany the following day.

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