The international role of the United States changed as a result of World War I. What was the short-term effect of this change?

1 answer

The short-term effect of the United States' changing international role as a result of World War I was its emergence as a significant global power and a key player in international affairs. After entering the war in 1917, the U.S. contributed to the Allied victory through substantial military personnel and resources. This involvement shifted American foreign policy from isolationism towards a more interventionist stance.

In the immediate aftermath of the war, the U.S. took a leading role in the Paris Peace Conference of 1919, where President Woodrow Wilson advocated for the establishment of the League of Nations and promoted his Fourteen Points as a framework for a just and lasting peace. This marked a significant moment in international diplomacy, showcasing the U.S.'s new responsibility in global governance and its commitment to shaping postwar order.

Thus, the short-term effect included heightened international engagement, a shift in diplomatic priorities, and a greater expectation from other countries for the U.S. to take a leadership role in managing world affairs.