Conflict and Tension 1918-1939Introduction
The Day the League Actually Worked
Part of League Successes — GCSE History
This introduction covers The Day the League Actually Worked within League Successes for GCSE History. Revise League Successes in Conflict and Tension 1918-1939 for GCSE History with 8 exam-style questions and 5 flashcards. This topic shows up very often in GCSE exams, so students should be able to explain it clearly, not just recognise the term. It is section 1 of 14 in this topic. Use this introduction to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.
Topic position
Section 1 of 14
Practice
8 questions
Recall
5 flashcards
📖 The Day the League Actually Worked
It is 1921. Sweden and Finland are on the brink of war. Both nations are claiming the Aaland Islands — a small archipelago in the Baltic Sea. Sweden settled the islands; Finland inherited them when it declared independence. Both sides are mobilising. It looks like the peace treaties have simply created new conflicts to replace the old ones. Then something remarkable happens: both countries agree to let a brand new international organisation called the League of Nations decide. The League rules in Finland's favour. Sweden accepts. No war. No bloodshed. It works. For a brief, shining moment in the 1920s, Woodrow Wilson's dream is real — disputes can be settled by law, not force. The tragedy of history is what happened next.