Neutrality Flashcards
(15 cards)
What was Wilson’s concept of “Moral Diplomacy”?
The idea that US foreign policy should be guided by moral principles and democratic values, aiming to improve the lives of others through example.
What is Wilsonianism
The belief that US foreign policy should promote democracy and peace through moral leadership and Christian principles
How did Wilson demonstrate his commitment to moral diplomacy with Colombia?
He paid Colombia $20 million in reparations for the US role in Panama’s separation from Colombia in 1903.
Did Wilson intervene in Latin America?
Yes, he intervened in countries like Haiti, the Dominican Republic, and Nicaragua, believing the US had a moral obligation to promote good governance.
What was Wilson’s justification for Latin American interventions?
He believed the US needed to teach other nations how to govern justly and aimed to support ‘orderly processes of just government’.
When did the USA declare neutrality in WWI?
August 1914. Wilson maintained this policy until April 1917 when the US joined the war.
What were the main reasons for US neutrality in 1914?
Public opinion against war, Wilson’s ideals (Wilsonianism), and the desire to act as a peace broker.
How did public opinion influence US neutrality?
Many Americans believed WWI was a European conflict. Protests, such as the 1914 women’s march in New York, reflected anti-war sentiment.
How did trade impact US neutrality?
Trade with the Allies far exceeded that with the Central Powers. By 1916, trade with Britain was ten times that with Germany.
Why was the US accused of not being truly neutral?
Because of its economic ties with the Allies, anti-German feeling, and Wilson’s underlying pro-British stance.
What was the impact of anti-German sentiment in the US?
It influenced public and political opinion, especially after reports of German atrocities (true or exaggerated) circulated in the press.
What did Wilson say in his Declaration of Neutrality (19 August 1914)?
He urged Americans not to take sides and offered to mediate peace between the warring nations.
How much had the Allies borrowed from the USA by the end of WWI?
Nearly $7 billion by 1918, rising to $10.5 billion after the peace settlement.
How did the Panama Canal controversy reflect Wilson’s ideals?
He pushed for the repeal of the 1912 law exempting US ships from paying tolls, insisting on fairness and international law
What infrastructure did the US develop in Latin America under Wilson?
Highways, bridges, hospitals, schools, and telephone systems — part of promoting ‘modernisation’.
