Us Foreign Policy Change 1920-1941

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1) How and for what reasons did United States foreign policy change between 1920 and 1941? In the eventful life of Americans during the Roaring Twenties, people were living up to the prosperous modern standards of society. But as soon as the Great Depression hit the world, the joys and excitement of life quickly dissipated and tension soon manifested itself among all nations. In the time period of 1920-1941 America experienced major global events that occurred in extremely short rapid intervals of time. From the end of World War I in 1918 to the Roaring Twenties, straight to the Great Depression in 1929, into the beginning of World War II in 1939, and all the way to the horror of the Pearl Harbor attack in 1941, America faced these occurrences with difficulty and confusion. But with the presidency of Franklin D. Roosevelt, quick and immediate responses were made to stabilize America. Among his responses were changes in America’s foreign policy. The ingrained sense of isolationism soon faded (foreshadowed by WWI and Wilson’s plea for the League of Nations). As demonstrated by Wilson’s League of Nations, Hitler’s reign, and the start of World War II, America gradually changed its foreign policy from avoiding foreign issues to becoming involved in global affairs, which in fact, was inevitable. During this period of time, many Americans still held an isolationist view. They were too arrogant at the time to not only become more aware but also more active in foreign affairs. With the presidency of Harding and Coolidge, the popular view of the time was the return to “normalcy”. In 1920, Harding made a speech opposing Wilson’s plan for the League of Nations (Doc A). This return to “normalcy” was believed to be the key to upholding America’s sovereignty and its values. This belief was shared by both the Democratic and Republican parties. In 1940, both aimed to keep the
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