The 14 Points by President Woodrow Wilson

Context and Background

Date of Speech: January 8, 1918
Purpose: Plan to end World War I and secure world peace
Initial US Position: Neutrality in 1914
Key Events Leading to US Involvement:
- Zimmerman Telegram (1917): Germany proposed an alliance with Mexico against the US
- Unrestricted Submarine Warfare (Feb 1, 1917): Germany resumed sinking ships with US citizens
- Sinking of the Lusitania (1915): 1,100 deaths, including 128 Americans
- US Declaration of War: April 2, 1917, Wilson requested Congress; April 4, Congress declared war

Objective: End the war; prevent future wars through policy and negotiations
Preparation: Wilson and Colonel Edward M. House organized a team to study global policies, producing 2,000 reports and 1,200 maps

Territorial Resolutions (8 points):
- Addressed specific territorial disputes
- Secured borders for Italy, Turkey (Ottoman Empire), Poland, and Austria-Hungary
General Principles (5 points):
- Open treaties/ agreements
- Freedom of the seas
- Free trade
- Reduction of armaments
- Adjustment of colonial claims
14th Point:
- Formation of a world organization ensuring political independence and territorial integrity
- Led to the League of Nations

Treaty of Versailles:
- Most of Wilson’s points were not realized
- Allies focused on regaining losses and punishing Germany
- Only the 14th point was partially integrated—forming the League of Nations
US and League of Nations:
- Despite Wilson’s advocacy, the US never joined
- Wilson predicted another world war; WWII occurred 20 years later

Diplomatic Idealism: Wilson's vision characterized his presidency
Legacy: Ideas of self-determination and international cooperation
Historical Impact: Set a precedent for international peace-keeping organizations despite the US not joining the League