This is an excerpt of a speech delivered in 1919: The independence of the United States is not only more precious to ourselves but to the world than any single possession. Look at the United States today. We have made mistakes in the past. We have had shortcomings. We shall make mistakes in the future and fall short of our own best hopes. But none the less is there any country today on the face of the earth which can compare with this in ordered liberty, in peace, and in the largest freedom? I feel that I can say this without being accused of undue boastfulness, for it is the simple fact, and in making this treaty and taking on these obligations all that we do is in a spirit of unselfishness and in a desire for the good of mankind. But it is well to remember that we are dealing with nations every one of which has a direct individual interest to serve, and there is grave danger in an unshared idealism. The author of this speech would most likely agree with which of the following statements? A. The United States should not have entered World War I. B. The United States should not join the League of Nations. C. The United States should have entered World War I sooner. D. The United States should reluctantly join the League of Nations.
The author of this speech would most likely agree with option D. The United States should reluctantly join the League of Nations. This is because the author acknowledges the importance of the United States' independence and values its "ordered liberty, peace, and largest freedom." However, the author also recognizes the need for the United States to engage with other nations and take on obligations for the good of mankind. The author mentions the dangers of "unshared idealism" and suggests that while the United States should act in a spirit of unselfishness, it should also be cautious in dealing with other nations who may have individual interests to serve. Joining the League of Nations with a sense of reluctance and consideration of potential risks aligns with the author's viewpoint.
