An organization formed in the United States during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, it comprised individuals who opposed the nation’s expansionist policies, particularly the annexation of the Philippines following the Spanish-American War. Members held diverse motivations, encompassing moral, economic, and constitutional arguments against acquiring and governing overseas territories. Prominent figures within its ranks included Mark Twain, Andrew Carnegie, and Jane Addams, reflecting a broad spectrum of American society.
Its significance lies in its articulation of dissenting opinions regarding American foreign policy at a pivotal moment in history. It provided a platform for debating the merits of colonialism, raising concerns about the potential for economic exploitation, the violation of self-determination principles, and the contradiction between imperial pursuits and the nation’s founding ideals. The league’s activities helped shape public discourse on the role of the United States in the world and contributed to a lasting debate about the responsibilities and limitations of American power.
