Weaknesses of the League of Nations | History for GCSE/IGCSE - Year 11 PDF Download

The Issues of Membership

• The League of Nations went against Wilson's vision. 
• Wilson wanted all nations to become members of the League and work together to improve the world.

Who Could Become Members of the League of Nations?

What Stopped the USA from Joining the League of Nations?

The League of Nations faced significant opposition in the United States for various reasons.

Unpopularity of the League in the US

• Many Americans opposed the idea of the League due to the aftermath of World War I.
• US citizens, including politicians, were isolationists, fearing involvement in European conflicts.

Concerns Over Treaty of Versailles

• Americans were wary of supporting the League as it would imply approval of the Treaty of Versailles.
• German immigrants in the US sympathized with Germany's plight post-WWI.

Political and Economic Factors

• Businesses feared economic repercussions if the League imposed sanctions on the US.
• President Wilson's illness in 1920 weakened efforts to garner public and Senate support.
• Warren Harding's anti-League campaign resonated with the public, leading to his election as president in 1921.
• If the League imposed sanctions on the USA, it would impact their export capabilities.
• Sanctions by the League could hinder the USA's export activities significantly.

Health Impact on Wilson

• After contracting a severe illness, Wilson was unable to run for re-election in 1920.
• Wilson embarked on a strenuous 27-day journey to garner public backing for the Versailles Settlement and League of Nations. Unfortunately, upon his return to Washington, he suffered a debilitating stroke.
• Wilson's health deteriorated to the point where he could not seek re-election in 1920.

Political Ramifications of League of Nations

• Warren Harding, the Republican nominee, vehemently opposed the League of Nations, campaigning vigorously against it.
• Between November 1919 and March 1920, the Senate deliberated twice on the Treaty of Versailles and US membership in the League of Nations. Wilson's efforts to secure Senate ratification were futile, leading to Harding's election as president in 1921.
• Harding's anti-League stance resonated with the public, propelling him to victory in the presidential election of 1921.

The Structure of the League of Nations

• The design of the League faced heavy criticism from contemporary observers.

Strengths and Weaknesses of the League's Organizational Framework

Why was the League's Failure Inevitable?

• The League was weakened due to the absence of the USA, a major world power.
  • The League lacked one of the most influential countries globally as a member.
  • The USA had the ability to disregard any economic sanctions or military decisions made by the Council.

World Leaders' Varied Perspectives:

• President Wilson's Vision:
  • Envisioned the League to function akin to an international parliament.
  • Advocated that the League should prioritize addressing global issues over national concerns.
• Prime Minister Lloyd George's Perspective:
  • Believed the League should convene solely during emergencies.
  • Sought to utilize the League to bolster Britain's empire through mandates.
• Prime Minister Clemenceau's Viewpoint:
  • Focused on the League's role in safeguarding France from invasions.
  • Advocated for a substantial army to be maintained by the League.