Use the assembled resources to investigate the shifting foreign policy goals and national ideals of American involvement in World War I. After evaluating the resources, come to a conclusion about the influence of the United States in world affairs before and after World War I.
* What arguments were made for and against the League of Nations?
* How did they compare with arguments for and against U.S. involvement in World War I?
Select the link to access the primary source documents. Cite specific evidence from the primary sources to support your thesis.
* Wilson’s Joint Address to Congress Leading to the Declaration of War Against Germany
* Henry Cabot Lodge: Reservations with Regard to the Treaty
* An excerpt from the Senate Debate on the League of Nations
* Wilson’s Final Address in Support of the League of Nations
After analyzing the provided resources, it is clear that the United States experienced a significant shift in foreign policy goals and national ideals during and after World War I. Prior to the war, the US maintained a policy of neutrality and isolationism, aiming to avoid entanglement in European conflicts. However, as the war progressed and American interests were threatened, public opinion began to shift towards intervention.
Arguments for US involvement in World War I included the need to protect American economic interests, ensure the safety of US citizens abroad, and uphold democratic values. President Woodrow Wilson's Joint Address to Congress Leading to the Declaration of War Against Germany in 1917 emphasized the necessity of joining the war to make the world "safe for democracy" and to preserve peace and freedom.
On the other hand, arguments against US involvement in the war focused on the desire to maintain neutrality and avoid being dragged into European conflicts. Senator Henry Cabot Lodge, in his objections to the Treaty of Versailles and the League of Nations, expressed concerns about the potential loss of American sovereignty and the entanglement in foreign affairs.
The debate over the League of Nations further highlighted the division in American foreign policy goals. Wilson's Final Address in Support of the League of Nations emphasized the need for collective security and international cooperation to prevent future conflicts, while opponents like Lodge argued for maintaining US sovereignty and independence in decision-making.
In conclusion, the US's involvement in World War I marked a significant shift in its foreign policy goals and national ideals. The debate over the League of Nations reflected the ongoing struggle between internationalism and isolationism in American foreign policy. Despite Wilson's efforts, the US ultimately did not join the League of Nations, indicating a partial return to isolationist tendencies after the war. Overall, the influence of the United States in world affairs before and after World War I showcased a delicate balance between pursuing national interests and promoting international cooperation.