Discussion #6: Did America really practice isolation and neutrality during WWI?
In 1914 Woodrow Wilson proclaimed U.S. neutrality, and asked the American people to remain “impartial in thought as well as deed.” At the end of the war, some members of the government pushed to expand American influence but to also remain free of any commitments, a policy its critics referred to as isolationism.
In order to prepare for this discussion forum:
- Review and identify the relevant sections of Chapter 23 that support your discussion. You might also find some of the content covered in Chapter 21 relevant to this discussion.
- Read Roosevelt’s Corollary to the Monroe Doctrine
https://www.archives.gov/milestone-documents/list#event-/timeline/item/lee-resolution
- Read Wilson’s Joint Address to Congress leading to the declaration of WWI
https://www.archives.gov/milestone-documents/list#event-/timeline/item/lee-resolution
- Read the transcript of Wilson’s 14 Points
https://www.archives.gov/milestone-documents/list
After you have completed your readings post a response to only ONE of the following questions.
- In your opinion, was U.S. policy in Asia and Latin America between from late nineteenth century to 1914 truly isolationist? Discuss and support your response.
- In your opinion, did America remain neutral in “thought and deed” from 1914 to 1917? Discuss and support your response.
