With the start of WWI, the US took the position of neutrality. Remaining neutral proved difficult but during the time America was able to prosper as both sides turned to the US for supplies, and we were happy to oblige. For the first time we even became a creditor nation, as we gave loans to both Germany and England. So, while Europe was suffering, America was thriving during the war and becoming a major economic player on the world stage. We will retain that position, even though neutrality proved impossible.
Historically Speaking 