June 2013 2-03: Explain why the USA did not join the League of Nations. (12 marks)

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June 2013 2-03: Explain why the USA did not join the League of Nations. (12 marks)

CausesGetting StartedGetting Started

  • the League was seen as an agency that would be used to enforce the Treaty of Versailles.
  • opposition to the Treaty of Versailles
  • there was an increasing move back towards isolationism.
  • Americans of German and Irish descent
  • Sanctions available to the League of Nations
  • the rejection of Woodrow Wilson in the presidential election campaign.

Effects

  • Many Americans opposed the Treaty of Versailles.  The USA did not sign the Treaty so why would it become a member of the League, an organisation created by the Treaty of Versailles?
  • opposition was driven by the belief that it was intended to serve the interests of Europe, particularly Britain and France
  • Traditional foreign policy which was based on avoiding involvement in foreign entanglements in accordance with the Monroe Doctrine, which was very significant amongst politicians. Many American citizens support for isolationism grew.
  • Many had strongly opposed US involvement in World War One anyway and wanted to avoid American involvement in future disputes.
  • one of the sanctions available was to restrict trade by imposing embargoes.  This was contrary to the free trade ideals of the USA and even Wilsons 14 points, point 3 allowing free trade.
  • As the idea of a League of Nations became less popular Wilson stubbornly insisted it was the way forward. His personality suffered from the effects of illness and exhaustion. In Sept 1919 he suffered a stroke and collapsed during a speech in Colorado.

Overall summary

Suggest that because of the money made from the First World War and how the USA could return to prosperity by staying out of further ‘foreign entanglements’ in Europe. Or that attitudes changes from 1919 positivity for peace. The long months of Wilson sorting out treaties in Europe led to people losing the enthusiasm and hope they felt in 1919.

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