Summary
The League of Nations aimed to maintain world peace and international cooperation between 1920 and 1939, achieving some successes but ultimately failing to prevent World War II.
- Aaland Islands — successful mediation of a territorial dispute between Sweden and Finland.
Example: Both nations accepted the League's decision, demonstrating early credibility. - Upper Silesia — resolution of a complex industrial region dispute between Germany and Poland.
Example: The League organised a plebiscite and fairly divided the territory. - Bulgaria — stopped Greek invasion after a border incident.
Example: Greece obeyed the League's orders to withdraw. - Vilna Crisis — failure to act when Poland seized Vilna from Lithuania.
Example: Lithuania was forced to accept the loss. - Manchurian Crisis — Japan invaded Manchuria, and the League failed to impose effective sanctions.
Example: Japan withdrew from the League in 1933. - Abyssinian Crisis — Italy invaded Abyssinia, and the League's sanctions were ineffective.
Example: Italy completed its conquest by 1936.
Exam Tips
Key Definitions to Remember
- Collective security
- Disarmament
- Arbitration
Common Confusions
- Confusing the League's humanitarian successes with its political failures
- Believing the League had its own military force
Typical Exam Questions
- How did the League of Nations aim to maintain world peace?
Through collective security, disarmament, and resolving disputes. - What were the major successes of the League in the 1920s?
Settling disputes like Aaland Islands and Upper Silesia, and humanitarian work. - Why did the League fail in the 1930s?
Due to structural weaknesses and inability to act against aggression.
What Examiners Usually Test
- Understanding of the League's successes and failures
- Knowledge of specific crises like Manchuria and Abyssinia
- Ability to evaluate the League's overall effectiveness