How did the U.S. position itself globally before entering World War II?

Before entering World War II, the United States adopted a strategy of providing military resources to allies in need, which became a key aspect of its pre-war foreign policy. This approach was particularly evident through programs such as Lend-Lease, established by legislation in March 1941. The Lend-Lease Act allowed the U.S. to supply Allied nations with vital war materials, including weapons, ammunition, and food, without requiring immediate payment. This not only bolstered the military capacity of countries like Britain and later the Soviet Union but also represented a shift from isolationism towards a more interventionist role in global affairs.

The U.S. sought to support nations that were fighting against Axis powers, thereby indirectly positioning itself against those nations without formally entering the conflict until December 1941. This strategy of aiding allies while officially remaining neutral exemplified a pragmatic response to the growing threat posed by fascist regimes in Europe and Asia.

In contrast, the choice that mentioned isolating itself from international affairs overlooks the significant steps the U.S. took to engage with allies, while the notion of forming military alliances exclusively with Europe does not capture the broader context of U.S. alliances that included support for nations like China. Lastly, participating in negotiations with Axis Powers does