Woodrow Wilson's political ideals were significantly shaped by major historical events, including the Progressive Era and the World War I. His vision for a more interventionist U.S. foreign policy emerged from the complexities of diplomacy amidst global conflict. Wilson advocated for the League of Nations as a means to ensure global peace and prevent future wars. His belief in self-determination and democracy reflected his experiences and ideals of the American character. However, his approach also sparked controversies and debates over interventionism that continue to inform modern foreign policy discussions.