The Fourteen Points in Detail
In his Fourteen Points speech, Wilson had described the terms under which America would accept a peace settlement. Wilson wanted to grant independence to lands in Europe that had been under imperial control. Wilson firmly believed that the Fourteen Points would solve the problems that had led to World War I, prevent future wars, and spread democracy across the globe. His “new world order” would serve as a contrast to Lenin’s vision of an international Communist society.
The Fourteen Points referenced free trade, open diplomacy, arms reductions, and an international organization—the League of Nations—to settle disputes without war. Over half of the points dealt with issues of national borders and national sovereignty.
Read the full transcript of Wilson’s speech to the U.S. Congress, which includes the Fourteen Points. Highlight details that reference the impact of the war and plans for a future peace. Click Highlight It to get started.
