America's Foreign Policy Practice Ecam

The primary reason for the U.S. Congress's refusal to ratify the League of Nations was the widespread opposition to the idea of engaging in foreign conflicts without Congressional approval. Many legislators feared that joining the League would obligate the United States to participate in international conflicts automatically, undermining Congress's constitutional authority to declare war. This concern reflected a broader apprehension about entangling alliances and a desire to maintain national sovereignty. The historical context is crucial here, as the aftermath of World War I led to debates about the balance of power between the executive and legislative branches when it came to military engagements. Thus, the desire to guard against potential obligations and preserve Congressional oversight contributed significantly to the resistance to the League of Nations.