US policies

Definition

US policies during the interwar period refer to the economic, political, and social strategies adopted by the United States from the end of World War I until the onset of World War II. These policies were characterized by isolationism, protectionism, and attempts to stabilize the domestic economy following the Great Depression. The impact of these policies shaped not only the American economy but also its international relations and response to global events during this tumultuous time.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The US adopted a policy of isolationism in the interwar period, seeking to avoid entanglement in European conflicts and focusing on domestic issues.
2. The Great Depression led to significant changes in US economic policies, including increased government intervention in the economy and social welfare programs.
3. The Smoot-Hawley Tariff was one of the highest tariffs in US history and aimed to protect American industry but ultimately worsened the economic situation by reducing international trade.
4. US monetary policy during this time aimed at stabilizing the banking system and addressing deflationary pressures caused by the Great Depression.
5. Despite its isolationist stance, the US engaged in some international agreements, such as the Kellogg-Briand Pact, which aimed at preventing war through diplomacy.

Review Questions

• How did US policies reflect a shift toward isolationism during the interwar period?
  • During the interwar period, US policies reflected a clear shift towards isolationism as Americans sought to distance themselves from foreign conflicts following the devastation of World War I. This was evident in both political rhetoric and legislative actions, such as avoiding alliances and rejecting membership in the League of Nations. The focus was instead placed on domestic recovery and avoiding military engagement abroad, which shaped America’s foreign relations for years to come.
• Analyze how the Great Depression influenced US economic policies during the interwar period.
  • The Great Depression had a profound impact on US economic policies, leading to significant government intervention aimed at economic recovery. In response to massive unemployment and bank failures, New Deal programs were implemented under President Franklin D. Roosevelt to provide relief, recovery, and reform. This shift marked a departure from previous laissez-faire approaches and introduced a more active role for the federal government in managing the economy.
• Evaluate the long-term effects of US isolationist policies on its global standing by the end of the interwar period.
  • US isolationist policies during the interwar period had lasting effects on America's global standing by creating a perception of withdrawal from international responsibilities. While initially seen as a means of preserving peace, this isolationism left Europe vulnerable to rising totalitarian regimes and contributed to tensions that would later escalate into World War II. By refusing to engage proactively with global issues, such as economic instability and militaristic expansion, the US found itself unprepared for the eventual conflict that emerged, ultimately reshaping its role on the world stage post-war.

Related terms

Isolationism:

A foreign policy stance where a country seeks to minimize its involvement in international affairs, focusing instead on domestic issues.

The Great Depression: A severe worldwide economic downturn that began in 1929, leading to widespread unemployment and hardship in the United States and beyond.

Smoot-Hawley Tariff: An act passed in 1930 that raised tariffs on numerous imports to protect American businesses but contributed to a decline in international trade.