Isolationism and internationalism are two distinct policies with different approaches and outcomes. Isolationism refers to the policy of avoiding involvement in international affairs, while internationalism emphasizes active engagement with other nations through trade and cooperation. Isolationism focuses on benefiting only the American people, whereas internationalism aims to foster prosperity and prevent conflicts globally. Isolationism keeps the United States from making international commitments, thus keeping it out of potential wars, while internationalism promotes trade between nations to create mutual benefits. Despite their differences, both policies share the common goal of promoting peace, whether at a national or global level.
In the aftermath of World War I, the United States had reasons to practice neutrality and avoid getting involved in European problems. Firstly, the rise of dictatorships and militarism in Europe after the war disillusioned many Americans, who felt that the sacrifices made during the war were in vain. Secondly, the Great Depression affected European nations, causing them to struggle with repaying the significant amount of money borrowed during the war, with most countries refusing to continue repaying their war debts to the United States. This economic strain further discouraged American involvement in European affairs. Additionally, the Nye Committee's investigative hearings exposed the substantial profits made by arms manufacturers during World War I, creating the perception that these businesses had manipulated the United States into entering the war. This revelation added to the growing sentiment of isolationism. To practice neutrality, the United States passed the Neutrality Act of 1935, which prohibited arms sales to war-torn nations. The Neutrality Act of 1937 continued the ban on arms sales and required warring countries to purchase non-military supplies from the United States on a "cash-and-carry" basis. These actions aimed to maintain neutrality and keep the United States from getting entangled in European conflicts.