Summary
The League of Nations was established after World War I to promote peace and cooperation, but faced challenges due to structural weaknesses and limited membership. It had mixed success in resolving conflicts and made significant humanitarian contributions.
- League of Nations — an international organization aimed at maintaining peace and preventing wars. Example: Formed in 1919, it was based on Wilson's Fourteen Points.
- Wilson's Fourteen Points — principles proposed by Woodrow Wilson to promote peace and cooperation. Example: Included open diplomacy and self-determination.
- Collective Security — a system where nations act together to prevent aggression. Example: The League aimed to use collective security to deter conflicts.
- Åland Islands Dispute — a conflict resolved by the League awarding the islands to Finland. Example: Demonstrated the League's potential for peaceful arbitration.
- Humanitarian Agencies — specialized bodies within the League that addressed social issues. Example: The Refugees Commission helped repatriate prisoners of war.
Exam Tips
Key Definitions to Remember
- League of Nations
- Wilson's Fourteen Points
- Collective Security
Common Confusions
- Believing the League had its own military force
- Assuming the USA was a member of the League
Typical Exam Questions
- What were the main aims of the League of Nations? To maintain international peace and promote disarmament.
- How did the League handle the Åland Islands dispute? It awarded the islands to Finland with guarantees for the Swedish-speaking population.
- Why was the League's effectiveness limited? Due to the absence of major powers like the USA and structural weaknesses.
What Examiners Usually Test
- Understanding of the League's aims and structure
- Examples of the League's successes and failures
- The impact of the League's humanitarian work