Woodrow Wilson

Definition

Woodrow Wilson was the 28th President of the United States, serving from 1913 to 1921. He is known for his progressive domestic policies and for leading the country during World War I, championing international diplomacy through his Fourteen Points and the League of Nations. His administration saw the establishment of the Federal Trade Commission, which aimed to protect consumers and maintain fair competition in business.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Woodrow Wilson was a key figure in implementing progressive reforms, which included antitrust legislation and regulatory agencies like the Federal Trade Commission.
2. He strongly believed in the importance of a strong federal government to regulate the economy and ensure fair competition among businesses.
3. Wilson's presidency coincided with major events such as World War I and the women's suffrage movement, during which he gradually shifted his stance to support women's voting rights.
4. The Federal Trade Commission was established under Wilson's administration in 1914 to prevent unfair business practices and promote consumer protection.
5. Wilson faced significant challenges with opposition from both political parties regarding his internationalism and economic policies, especially after World War I.

Review Questions

• How did Woodrow Wilson's administration contribute to the establishment of regulatory bodies like the Federal Trade Commission?
  • Woodrow Wilson's administration emphasized the need for government intervention in the economy to ensure fairness and competition. This belief led to the establishment of the Federal Trade Commission in 1914, designed to prevent monopolistic practices and protect consumers from unfair business tactics. Wilson's progressive policies reflected his commitment to creating a more equitable economic landscape, demonstrating how his leadership played a pivotal role in shaping modern regulatory frameworks.
• Analyze the impact of Woodrow Wilson's Fourteen Points on post-World War I diplomacy and international relations.
  • Woodrow Wilson's Fourteen Points were significant in shaping post-World War I diplomacy as they outlined principles aimed at preventing future conflicts through self-determination, free trade, and collective security. His vision contributed to the formation of the League of Nations, although it ultimately faced resistance in the U.S. Senate. The Points influenced global discussions about peace treaties and the redrawing of national borders, although not all countries embraced Wilsonian ideals, leading to mixed outcomes in international relations.
• Evaluate how Wilson's progressive vision intersected with his foreign policy goals during his presidency.
  • Wilson's progressive vision was characterized by a belief in government reform to promote social justice at home while simultaneously advocating for democratic ideals abroad. This dual focus became evident when he sought to apply moral principles to U.S. foreign policy, exemplified by his efforts during World War I and his post-war plans for peace. However, his commitment to self-determination often conflicted with traditional imperial interests, highlighting a tension between domestic progressivism and international diplomacy that defined his presidency.

Related terms

Federal Reserve Act: A law enacted in 1913 that created the Federal Reserve System, establishing a central banking system in the United States to provide more flexible and stable monetary policy.

Progressivism: A social and political movement that emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, advocating for reforms to address issues such as corruption, inequality, and labor rights.

Fourteen Points: A statement of principles for peace that was used for peace negotiations to end World War I, articulated by Woodrow Wilson in January 1918.