Describe the concept of collective security and explain how it is historically relevant to U.S. foreign policy. How was the concept put into practice, and what are some of the reasons that it failed?

What will be an ideal response?

Answers should identify collective security as a method of curtailing aggressive war in which all nations pledge to defend a country that is attacked. Answers should name collective security as part of President Wilson’s Fourteen Points following World War I. Students should further discuss how collective security was the rationale for the League of Nations, which was the international institution for countries defending against aggression. Answers should highlight the fact that the United States did not join the League and describe the League as loosely formed and subject to collective action problems that allowed aggressive acts by Italy, Japan, and Germany.