Q&A · 2:33:00-2:35:07

Would a neutral United States prevent the Second World War?

American neutrality would not automatically prevent another world war and could produce a harsher post-war settlement with no Washington treaty.

Question

Would the Second World War still happen if the United States had remained neutral in the First World War?

Short answer

Probably yes; the key difference would be a harsher, less moderated post-war order and the likely absence of the Washington Naval Treaty.

Notes

The post-war diplomatic settlement matters more than the simple fact of American participation. Without the United States at the peace table, there may be no Washington Naval Treaty and less moderating pressure on Versailles. The United States would also emerge with less influence and a weaker reputation for confronting major powers.