What surprises did America face for World War 1?

America faced several surprises during World War I, including the scale and brutality of modern warfare, which starkly contrasted with earlier conflicts. The rapid mobilization of troops and resources highlighted the nation's industrial capabilities, but also revealed logistical challenges. Additionally, the introduction of new technologies, such as machine guns and poison gas, changed the nature of combat unexpectedly. Lastly, the political ramifications of joining the war, including the impact on domestic policies and international relations, caught many by surprise.