The United States: Isolationist or Internationalist from 1914 to 1941
During the period between 1914 to 1941, was the United States more of an isolationist country or an internationalist country?
What is this question really asking?
This question is asking you to compare two concepts—isolationism and internationalism—and how different presidential administrations followed them in their foreign policy. You need to explain those two terms, and then go through the various administrations during this period to show how each demonstrated one or the other (or both!) of those ideas. Which idea was more influential overall? As always, you can make a good argument for either side. It’s a matter of what evidence you think is more important. State your case and then prove it.
The following resource must be used: Paul Boyer et al., The Enduring Vision: A History of the American People, Volume 2.
The United States: Isolationist or Internationalist from 1914 to 1941?
The question of whether the United States was more of an isolationist or internationalist country between 1914 and 1941 is a complex one. It requires an examination of the foreign policies pursued by different presidential administrations during this period and an analysis of the underlying motivations and priorities that shaped those policies. In order to answer this question, we must first define isolationism and internationalism and then explore how each concept manifested in the actions of the United States during this time.
Isolationism is a foreign policy approach characterized by a desire to avoid entanglement in foreign conflicts and focus primarily on domestic affairs. Isolationists believe that involvement in foreign affairs can lead to unnecessary commitments, drain resources, and potentially endanger national security. On the other hand, internationalism is a foreign policy approach that emphasizes active engagement with other nations, cooperation in addressing global issues, and the pursuit of shared interests and values.
During the period from 1914 to 1941, the United States experienced significant events that shaped its foreign policy outlook. The outbreak of World War I, the aftermath of the war, the Great Depression, and the rise of totalitarian regimes all had profound effects on American perceptions of global engagement.
In the early years of this period, particularly during World War I, the United States pursued a more internationalist approach. President Woodrow Wilson advocated for a new world order based on principles such as self-determination and collective security. This was reflected in his support for the League of Nations, an international organization aimed at preventing future conflicts. However, despite Wilson's efforts, the United States ultimately did not join the League, as Congress rejected the idea due to concerns over sovereignty and entanglement in foreign affairs.
Following World War I, there was a shift towards isolationism in the United States. The country experienced a desire to focus on domestic concerns and rebuild after the war. The 1920s witnessed a retreat from international involvement, with policies such as the Washington Naval Conference reflecting a desire to limit arms races and maintain peace. The passage of restrictive immigration laws also demonstrated a growing desire to protect American interests from perceived threats.
The Great Depression further reinforced isolationist sentiments. As the country faced economic hardship, there was a widespread belief that focusing on domestic recovery should take precedence over engagement in global affairs. The Smoot-Hawley Tariff Act, which raised tariffs on imported goods, was seen as a way to protect American industries but had negative consequences for international trade and relations.
However, as tensions rose in Europe with the rise of totalitarian regimes such as Nazi Germany and Fascist Italy, there was a growing recognition that isolationism might not be an effective response. President Franklin D. Roosevelt's administration shifted towards a more internationalist stance in response to these threats. The passage of the Lend-Lease Act in 1941, which provided military aid to Allied countries, signaled a departure from strict neutrality and demonstrated a commitment to supporting nations fighting against aggression.
While both isolationist and internationalist tendencies were present during this period, it can be argued that overall, the United States leaned more towards isolationism. The desire to avoid foreign entanglements and focus on domestic concerns was evident in policies such as limited involvement in international organizations and the imposition of protective tariffs. However, the changing global landscape and the threat posed by totalitarian regimes eventually compelled the United States to adopt a more internationalist approach.
In conclusion, the question of whether the United States was more isolationist or internationalist from 1914 to 1941 is complex and multifaceted. While there were periods of both isolationism and internationalism, the prevailing sentiment during this time leaned towards isolationism. However, as global events unfolded and threats emerged, there was a gradual shift towards a more internationalist stance. Ultimately, it is important to consider the context and motivations behind specific policies and actions to fully understand the United States' approach during this period.