The League of Nations was a great success given the limitations with which it had to work. The League's goals, among others, were to resolve international disputes peacefully, prevent war, and improve global welfare and they worked towards these goals with strong determination that yielded them successes that were tremendously influential even with the absence of several major powers. Thanks to the League several major crises were averted by the usage of diplomacy and mediation instead of hostility and aggression. In 1917, Finland and Sweden were in disagreement over the rightful ownership of the Aland Islands and the League of Nations was asked for its opinion.
After talks with both sides the League was able to reach an agreement in which the Islands would remain a part of Finland but be governed autonomously which appeased both sides. The utilisation of diplomacy in international affairs not only solved international disputes but also was a major player in the prevention of war. The Albanians can certainly attest to that. After they were invaded by Yugoslav forces over a border disagreement the League was called in to resolve the problem.
They agreed that Yugoslavia was in the wrong and ordered them to withdraw their troops immediately, which they did with no further loss of life. The League was able to resolve a problem between two countries known for their bloody nationalistic uprisings with minimal loss of life. This amazing feat would be recreated again in 1921 starring Germany and Poland involving Upper Silesia, which after several unsuccessful plebiscites followed by violent riots was unable to choose a country. This time in a Solomon-like ruling, the League of Nations declared that the disputed region should be split in two and each country receive half.
This was favoured by the majority of Upper Silesians and after years of unrest brought peace and stability to the area. The League's triumphs in peace-keeping, however, were eclipsed by their achievements in improving global welfare. During the League's short existence they were able to accomplish great humanitarian feats and create legacy organisations which continue to improve the world we live in today. The creation of the Nansen Passport allowed thousand of stateless refugees to begin new lives in other countries.
The investigations into the forced labour scandal in Liberia resulted in the establishment of a just government and the institution of worker reforms which benefited all Liberians. The encouragement given by the League of Nations to its members to loan funds to Austria and Hungary to help rebuild their respective economies has been credited with improving the living conditions of millions and promoting political stability. Frankly put, the League of Nations did more in twenty-seven years than centuries of international pacts, alliances, coalitions, treaties, accords, or agreements ever did, all without the support of the world's greatest power. If that is not a success, I do not know what is.
