What was Wilson's foreign policy philosophy?

Woodrow Wilson's foreign policy philosophy, often referred to as Wilsonianism, emphasized the spread of democracy and the promotion of self-determination for peoples around the world. This philosophy emerged during his presidency (1913-1921) and became most evident during and after World War I. Wilsonianism can be broken down into several key principles:

1. Self-determination: Wilson advocated for the right of people to choose their own government, free from external influence or domination. This was a response to the colonialist and imperialist tendencies of the time.

2. Moral diplomacy: Wilson believed that the United States should spread democracy and promote peace by setting a moral example, rather than by conquering or coercing other nations.

3. Open diplomacy: Wilson pushed for an end to secret treaties and backroom deals, arguing that transparency in international relations would lead to greater trust and cooperation between nations.

4. Free trade: He supported the lowering of tariffs and other barriers to international commerce, contending that economic interdependence would reduce the likelihood of conflict.

5. Collective security: Through the League of Nations, which was Wilson's brainchild, he envisioned a world where nations would work together to prevent aggression and punish any nation that disturbed the peace.

6. Opposition to imperialism: Wilson's principles included a stance against the annexation of territories by stronger nations at the expense of weaker ones.

Notably, Wilson's Fourteen Points, presented in 1918 towards the end of World War I, encapsulated much of his foreign policy philosophy, offering a blueprint for peace and the postwar order. However, while Wilson's ideas were influential, they were also met with resistance both domestically and internationally, and not all were successfully implemented.