The League of Nations

by Gary B. Ostrower

The destruction caused by World War I was unprecedented in global history - millions had perished, the earth's most prosperous continent had been ravaged, and confidence in a better future had been shattered. Had the optimism and spirit that characterized industrialized civilization died in the trenches? There was finally peace, but was there hope? While it is easy to argue that the twentieth century has been the most destructive age in history, it is important to look at and understand the movement among nations to secure lasting peace that took shape during this period. It is this story that is brilliantly chronicled in the Partners for Peace series. Out of the suffering of World War I was born a movement that sought to have all nations cooperate and to eliminate war from the globe forever. American President Woodrow Wilson was the dynamic leader of this crusade, and his words - later embodied in the Covenant of the League of Nations - gave stirring voice to humankind's ancient dream