The USA - Reaction to World War One Flashcards
Why did America never join the League of Nations?
1) Was set up as part of treaty of Versailles
2) Wilson wanted to join but needed Congress’s approval
3) Most Americans didn’t want to join
4) Majority favoured ‘isolationism’
What was the League of Nations?
A world parliament where the representatives of all the worlds major powers would meet to discuss matters of international importance. It was largely Woodrow Wilson’s idea, it was one of his Fourteen Points which he though a peace settlement would be based, he thought it would prevent another world war.
Why did Americans not trust the League of Nations?
1) Many against America joining WW1 were upset by loss of lives
2) If America joined, would be obliged to interfere in conflicts that isn’t their business
3) Had a lot of German and Austrian immigrants who saw league as linked to hated treaty of Versailles. Were opposed to USA joining something that making Germany pay vast amounts in reparations
4) Some Americans were suspicious of British and French, thought it would come under their control and America would be called upon to help them with their colonies. Colonies didn’t fit in with their ideals.
5. Thought it would cost them money, would drag America into lots of expensive wars.
