Question

What were the major ideas behind wilsons fourteen points?

Answer 1

Wilson's Fourteen Points imagines a postwar world in which nations respect each others' borders, act in good faith, show respect to former enemies—basically, it's a big kumbaya circle without the s'mores and campfire. Sounds nice.

It was an ambitious and broad vision of the future, a portrait of peace delivered before the world war ever had even ended. No wonder some leaders criticized Wilson for being too idealistic.


Once a supporter of neutrality and American isolationism, he switched his tone with the Fourteen Points, advocating a unified front of the world's governments. He hoped such an organization, through common agreements, could maintain the hard-won peace.

Though his message didn't prevent a world war sequel (WWII: Bigger, Longer, and in Two Theaters), this vision of international relations still persists.