STUDENT SAMPLE
(a) Way the excerpt reflects Wilson’s idealistic approach:
The excerpt shows Wilson’s idealism because he emphasizes moral goals rather than national self-interest, claiming that the U.S. seeks “no conquest, no dominion” and wants only the “vindication of right.” This aligns with his vision of promoting democracy and international peace, exemplified by his later push for the League of Nations.
(b) Way Wilson’s actions reflected a realist approach:
Despite his rhetoric, Wilson’s foreign policy sometimes reflected realism. For example, he reluctantly intervened in Mexico during the Mexican Revolution and sent troops to Haiti and the Dominican Republic to protect U.S. economic and strategic interests. These actions show that Wilson also acted to safeguard practical U.S. goals.
(c) Reason historians might disagree:
Historians might disagree because Wilson’s idealistic statements, like those in his 14 Points, contrast with his pragmatic military interventions. Some emphasize his moral vision and global goals, while others stress that he prioritized U.S. power and security when necessary, making him both idealistic and realistic depending on context.
(a) Way the excerpt reflects Wilson’s idealistic approach:
The excerpt shows Wilson’s idealism because he emphasizes moral goals rather than national self-interest, claiming that the U.S. seeks “no conquest, no dominion” and wants only the “vindication of right.” This aligns with his vision of promoting democracy and international peace, exemplified by his later push for the League of Nations.
(b) Way Wilson’s actions reflected a realist approach:
Despite his rhetoric, Wilson’s foreign policy sometimes reflected realism. For example, he reluctantly intervened in Mexico during the Mexican Revolution and sent troops to Haiti and the Dominican Republic to protect U.S. economic and strategic interests. These actions show that Wilson also acted to safeguard practical U.S. goals.
(c) Reason historians might disagree:
Historians might disagree because Wilson’s idealistic statements, like those in his 14 Points, contrast with his pragmatic military interventions. Some emphasize his moral vision and global goals, while others stress that he prioritized U.S. power and security when necessary, making him both idealistic and realistic depending on context.