Woodrow Wilson

Definition

Woodrow Wilson was the 28th President of the United States, serving from 1913 to 1921. He is known for his significant contributions to public policy, particularly in the context of government institutions, advocating for reforms that shaped the federal government and its relationship with citizens.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Wilson's presidency marked a shift toward a more active role of the federal government in economic affairs through regulatory reforms and antitrust laws.
2. He led the United States during World War I and played a crucial role in negotiating the Treaty of Versailles, which ended the war.
3. Wilson's vision for international relations was embodied in his Fourteen Points, which outlined principles for peace and self-determination for nations.
4. His administration established the Federal Trade Commission to prevent unfair business practices and promote competition.
5. Wilson's push for the League of Nations reflected his belief in collective security and international cooperation, although it faced significant opposition at home.

Review Questions

• How did Woodrow Wilson's New Freedom program aim to change the role of government in economic matters?
  • Woodrow Wilson's New Freedom program sought to limit the power of monopolies and reduce government intervention in economic affairs while promoting free competition. This approach aimed to empower small businesses and restore economic opportunities that had been stifled by larger corporations. By advocating for regulatory reforms, such as the Federal Trade Commission, Wilson intended to create a fairer economic environment where competition could thrive.
• Discuss the impact of Wilson's leadership on the establishment of the Federal Reserve System and its significance.
  • Woodrow Wilson's leadership was pivotal in the establishment of the Federal Reserve System through the Federal Reserve Act of 1913. This act created a central banking system designed to provide stability to the U.S. economy by regulating monetary policy and managing inflation. The Federal Reserve became essential in addressing financial crises and ensuring a stable banking system, fundamentally changing how the government interacts with economic fluctuations.
• Evaluate how Woodrow Wilson's vision for a League of Nations reflected his beliefs about international relations and its implications for future global governance.
  • Woodrow Wilson's vision for a League of Nations showcased his commitment to collective security and international cooperation following World War I. He believed that fostering dialogue among nations could prevent future conflicts and maintain peace. However, despite his idealistic goals, the League faced challenges, particularly due to U.S. isolationism, which limited its effectiveness. This experience highlighted both the potential and difficulties of creating international governance structures, influencing future attempts at global cooperation.

Related terms

New Freedom: A domestic program introduced by Wilson that aimed to promote economic opportunity and reduce governmental intervention in the economy.

Federal Reserve Act: A law enacted in 1913 that established the Federal Reserve System, which serves as the central banking system of the United States.

League of Nations: An international organization founded after World War I, proposed by Wilson as part of his Fourteen Points to promote peace and cooperation among countries.