LAD #31: Wilson's 14 Points

He scares me.



The 14-point plan outlined by US President Woodrow Wilson after World War I's conclusion were focused on creating open and direct peace agreements between belligerents. He points out that the US only entered the war because their interests and the interests of their people were in danger, and they are only interested in making sure the people of the world are safe. This is reflected in his points, which call for, in order:

1. Open covenants of peace
2. Freedom of the seas
3. Equality of trade conditions between nations
4. Reduction of national armaments (not of any specific country, rather of all belligerents)
5. Impartial adjustment of colonial claims
6. Evacuation of Russian territory
7. Evacuation and restoration of Belgium
8. Freedom of French territory and settlement of prior conflicts
9. Readjustment of the frontiers of Italy
10. Austro-Hungarian freedom of autonomy
11. Independence of the Balkan states
12. Autonomy of Ottoman-controlled nationalities
13. Creation of an Independent Polish State
14. Association of nations formed to affirm mutual guarantees of independence and integrity

Many of Wilson's points focused on peace talks, allowing smaller nations to gain autonomy, and the general demilitarization of all world powers. However, this was challenged by Britain and France, who wanted heavy reparations to be paid by Germany for the destruction of the war. These reparation payments would breed further hostility in Europe and set the stage for World War II.