Answer to Question #75090 in History for Emily

Question

Why didn't the U.S. do anything to stop the fascist invasions of Manchuria or Ethiopia, or to stop Germany's reoccupation of the Rhineland?

Answer 1

Answer: Britain, France, and the United States were not willing to risk war for high
principle if validating that principle imperiled vital interests. None of the countries had an active
interest in whether or not Japan controlled Manchuria. If the United States denied joining the
League, nations would have no idea how to object in case Germany walked out. Hitler’s military
occupation of the Rhineland was a direct challenge to France. Yet, the USA did not act militarily
since France, with its huge army, did not do that in its interests (Buchanan).