A Level History - America - Practice Exam

Which principle best describes American isolationism during the early 20th century?

1. The USA felt inferior to European powers

2. The USA sought to spread democracy across the globe

3. The USA aimed for self-sufficiency and avoided foreign conflicts

4. The USA was focused on joining European alliances

The correct answer is: The USA aimed for self-sufficiency and avoided foreign conflicts

The principle that best describes American isolationism during the early 20th century is the aim for self-sufficiency and the avoidance of foreign conflicts. During this period, the United States adopted a policy of non-involvement in European affairs and sought to keep itself out of international conflicts. This approach was influenced by a combination of historical precedents, such as George Washington's farewell address, which urged the nation to steer clear of entangling alliances, and the experiences from World War I, where the costs of participation led to a desire to remain detached in order to focus on domestic issues. American isolationism was characterized by a reluctance to engage in foreign wars and alliances, with the belief that the nation should prioritize its own economic growth and stability. This was reflected in policies aimed at increasing economic self-sufficiency and a general public sentiment that favored staying out of European political struggles. In contrast, notions like superiority over European powers or ambitions to spread democracy do not accurately capture the essence of the isolationist stance of the U.S. during this timeframe. Instead, the focus was primarily on maintaining national independence and avoiding the complexities of foreign entanglements.