Fourteen Points

Pick a principle like liberty or international law that Wilson proposes in his speech. How do his 14 points try to make it a reality? Do they apply that principle consistently and fairly? Be specific.

Some of Wilson’s 14 points solve specific territorial issues while others are general principles. Why might Wilson include both big ideas and specific actions in his list of points?

Some of Wilson’s 14 points are short and some are explained in several sentences. Examine some of the longer points carefully. Why might Wilson have emphasized and explained these at greater length?

Wilson does not explicitly acknowledge opposing views. However, when read carefully, it is possible to see him addressing potential objections. What objections does he anticipate from Americans, America’s allies, and/or the Central Powers? How does he respond to them?

Wilson portrays himself and America as the champions of justice. How specifically does he make this claim? Is he setting up Germany and the other Central Powers as supporters of injustice or is he offering a more nuanced view?

The first half of Wilson’s speech focuses on the Russians and their talks with the Central Powers. Why does he spend almost half the speech analyzing them?

Research the causes of World War I. How do Wilson’s 14 points address them? Do they offer realistic solutions to the factors that caused the war?

Research the Paris Peace Conference and the Treaty of Versailles that brought World War I to an end. How successful was Wilson in getting his proposals for peace accepted? Which of his points failed to be accepted? Which succeeded?