The 28th President of the United States, serving from 1913 to 1921, held office during a period of significant domestic and international change. His administration is characterized by progressive reforms and involvement in World War I. Key initiatives include the creation of the Federal Reserve System, the passage of antitrust legislation, and the pursuit of a “New Freedom” agenda aimed at economic and social betterment. His foreign policy was initially focused on neutrality but shifted towards interventionism as the conflict in Europe escalated. An example of his impact involves his leadership during World War I and his subsequent efforts to establish the League of Nations as a means to prevent future global conflicts.
His historical significance is derived from his transformative impact on the role of the federal government and the nation’s place on the world stage. The reforms enacted during his presidency reshaped the American economy and financial system. His advocacy for international cooperation, most notably through the League of Nations, represented a pivotal moment in American foreign policy, although the U.S. Senate ultimately rejected participation. This legacy continues to influence discussions regarding American interventionism, international organizations, and the balance between domestic progressivism and foreign policy objectives.
