Interventionism

Definition

Interventionism refers to the policy or practice of intervening in the affairs of other nations, particularly in military, political, or economic contexts. In the early 20th century, as World War I progressed, the United States faced pressure to abandon its stance of neutrality and engage more directly in the conflict. This shift from isolationist policies towards interventionism was marked by various events and sentiments that highlighted the growing belief in the need for the U.S. to take an active role on the global stage.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Prior to World War I, the United States largely adhered to a policy of neutrality, believing it was best to avoid foreign entanglements.
2. As the war progressed, factors like unrestricted submarine warfare by Germany and economic ties to Allied nations increased pressure for intervention.
3. The sinking of the Lusitania in 1915 was a pivotal event that swayed public opinion towards supporting intervention in the war.
4. The Zimmerman Telegram, a secret communication from Germany proposing a military alliance with Mexico against the U.S., further fueled calls for intervention.
5. Ultimately, President Woodrow Wilson justified intervention by framing it as a moral duty to make the world 'safe for democracy'.

Review Questions

• How did public sentiment and key events influence the shift from neutrality to interventionism in the U.S. during World War I?
  • Public sentiment in the U.S. began to shift towards interventionism due to several key events, such as the sinking of the Lusitania and Germany's unrestricted submarine warfare. These incidents not only resulted in American casualties but also threatened U.S. economic interests tied to the Allies. The growing awareness of these dangers and a desire to protect American values led many citizens to support entering the war, creating pressure on political leaders to abandon neutrality.
• Discuss the role of President Woodrow Wilson in promoting interventionism and how he framed America's involvement in World War I.
  • President Woodrow Wilson played a crucial role in promoting interventionism by articulating a vision of America’s involvement as a moral obligation. He framed U.S. entry into World War I as necessary to protect democracy and freedom, famously declaring that America must make the world 'safe for democracy'. This narrative not only justified military action but also rallied public support for the war effort, aligning American ideals with international responsibilities.
• Evaluate the long-term impacts of U.S. interventionism during World War I on American foreign policy in subsequent decades.
  • The shift towards interventionism during World War I had profound long-term impacts on American foreign policy. Following the war, the U.S. moved away from isolationist tendencies and increasingly engaged in international affairs, establishing itself as a global power. This shift led to future interventions in global conflicts, shaping America's role in world politics throughout the 20th century, including its involvement in World War II and later Cold War conflicts. The precedent set during this time established expectations for American leadership on the global stage that continue to influence policy decisions today.

Related terms

Neutrality: A foreign policy stance of not participating in conflicts or wars between other nations.

Isolationism:

A national policy of avoiding involvement in international alliances and conflicts.

Entangling Alliances: Political agreements or partnerships with other nations that may obligate a country to become involved in foreign conflicts.