The League of Nations and Its Problems: Three Lectures

A historical account written in the early 20th century. The work comprises three lectures that explore the establishment of the League of Nations, its historical context, and the challenges it faced. The focus is on the necessity of forming a collective international body to promote peace and prevent conflicts in the aftermath of World War I. The opening of the text introduces the subject of the League of Nations by detailing the author's rationale for delivering these lectures. Oppenheim emphasizes connecting the concept of a League of Nations with historical precedents, addressing challenges that impede its realization, and proposing viable solutions. He critically evaluates the notion that the League is a new idea, asserting its roots in the evolution of International Law and the practice of diplomacy, and outlines how prior attempts to establish international cooperation through treaties have paved the way for the League’s aims and structures. Oppenheim also indicates that the League’s effectiveness will depend significantly on the defeat of certain powers, advocating for a collaborative approach to ensure a lasting peace.