Part 9/13:
While the U.S. hesitated, other major powers viewed the League through different lenses. Britain, for example, had mixed feelings: some politicians supported the League’s principles, seeing it as an instrument to safeguard the British Empire and promote peace without entangling Britain in unnecessary conflicts. Yet, some critics, including Prime Minister Lloyd George, harbored doubts, especially about how the League would impact empire management or threaten British sovereignty.
Japan sought to join as a way to assert its status as a major power, particularly eager to formalize control over former German possessions in China. However, Japan’s role was limited—labeled the “silent partner of peace”—and its participation was often driven by ambitions for empire more than collective security.