The United States was trying to remain neutral in, and isolated from, international affairs during the early 20th century for a variety of reasons. Though prior to World War I, U.S. foreign policy had largely focused on economic expansion overseas and protecting America’s global interests using diplomatic means whenever possible, the country also sought to avoid outright involvement in any conflict that might arise outside its borders. This period of isolationism stemmed partly from a desire to preserve domestic order amidst growing labor unrest and racial tensions within American society; engaging with one side or another over disputes abroad would only have added to this political instability at home.

There were also several practical considerations behind the U.S.’s desire for neutrality. As an emerging power in world affairs, it did not want to be seen as taking sides or meddling in other countries’ business; instead it wanted to demonstrate that it could act independently when necessary and maintain cordial relations with all involved nations – even those traditionally marked as enemies by Europe’s traditional powers (such as Japan). Moreover, because of its geographical position across two oceans from most major European conflicts during this time period, being neutral meant sparing itself both economically and militarily: if it remained on the sidelines of overseas engagements then there would be no need for additional spending on armaments or military personnel deployments; nor would there be any risk of direct attack against U.S.-controlled territories like Puerto Rico or Hawaii (which at that point were still colonies).