Why was it so difficult for Wilson to maintain American's neutrality from 1914-1916?

for ww1 he tried to solve things but the allies and central powers wouldnt listen

many people were pressuring him to do something, but he wouldn't.
even some people in his cabinet resigned because they didn't agree with his refusal to take action

Wilson faced several challenges in maintaining American neutrality from 1914 to 1916. Here are a few reasons why it was difficult:

1. Complex European Situation: The outbreak of World War I in 1914 created a complex situation in Europe, with the Allies (comprised of France, Britain, and Russia) and the Central Powers (consisting of Germany, Austria-Hungary, and later joined by the Ottoman Empire) engaged in a fierce conflict. Wilson's efforts to mediate between the warring parties and negotiate a peaceful settlement proved unsuccessful, as both sides were reluctant to heed his proposals.

2. Economic Interests: Despite officially maintaining neutrality, the United States still had significant economic ties with the warring nations. American businesses had vested interests in maintaining trade relations with both sides. This created a challenge for Wilson in balancing the economic interests of American companies and upholding the country's neutrality.

3. Pressure from the Public and Politicians: Many Americans had strong emotional ties to their ancestral homelands in Europe, particularly in Britain and Germany. As a result, they sympathized with the Allies or the Central Powers, respectively, and pressured Wilson to take a stance in favor of their preferred side. Additionally, politicians in Congress were divided along similar lines, with some advocating for military intervention or support for a specific side.

4. Violations of Neutrality: Both the Allies and the Central Powers engaged in actions that violated American neutrality. British naval blockades hindered U.S. trade with Germany, while German unrestricted submarine warfare led to the sinking of American ships. These acts put pressure on Wilson to respond and protect American interests.

5. Resignations and Divisions within the Cabinet: Wilson's refusal to take sides created disagreements within his own administration. Several members of his cabinet, like Secretary of State William Jennings Bryan, resigned due to their disagreement with his neutrality policy. This internal division weakened Wilson's ability to implement a more assertive approach.

It is important to note that Wilson ultimately shifted from neutrality to intervention in 1917, when the United States officially entered the war. The sinking of the British ocean liner RMS Lusitania and the interception of the Zimmermann Telegram played significant roles in swaying public opinion and pushing the United States towards war.