Study Sources B and C in the Sources Booklet - AQA - GCSE History - Question 2 - 2023 - Paper 1

Sources B and C provide valuable insights into the effectiveness and perception of the League of Nations in historical context.

Evaluation of Source B

Source B shows a cartoon created in 1931, depicting the League's capabilities. This source is useful because it illustrates the disillusionment with the League as it demonstrates that the organization had drawn criticism for its inability to act effectively, particularly in the face of international crises. It highlights the hopes and expectations surrounding the League, only to reveal how these expectations were not met by 1931. In this context, the source acts as a commentary on the League’s limitations, demonstrating its failure to prevent wars and maintain peace.

Additionally, Source B addresses the role of the United States, emphasizing that the League did not have sufficient military power. This supports the argument that American involvement was crucial for the League to succeed, thus furthering the narrative of its ineffectiveness.

Evaluation of Source C

Source C demonstrates the opinion that the League was ineffective, primarily focused on the USA's non-membership. The cartoon suggests that the League's purpose was to encourage America to intervene in international conflicts, particularly during the crisis in Manchuria. The lack of American military support hindered the League’s ability to respond effectively to aggression by Japan, as illustrated in the source. Hence, it gives insight into the internal conflicts faced by the League regarding international cooperation.

Contextual Knowledge

Contextually, the effectiveness of the League of Nations can also be evaluated in light of key events such as the Abyssinian Crisis and the Manchurian Incident, where the League's failure to enforce decisions illustrated its weaknesses. Therefore, both sources highlight the perception and challenges that prevented the League from achieving its goals.

In conclusion, both Sources B and C are highly useful for historians studying the League of Nations. They reflect not only the public sentiment and criticisms of the time but also the broader issues of international cooperation that plagued the League.