Final answer:
The factors that contributed directly to the United States becoming a nation advocating isolationism were the legacy of isolationism, the desire to avoid war, and a shift in sentiment after World War I.
Step-by-step explanation:
The United States became a nation advocating isolation from the rest of the world due to several factors:
- Legacy of isolationism: From the late 18th century until the early 20th century, isolationism was a popular stance in U.S. foreign policy. Leaders like Thomas Jefferson believed that by staying out of foreign entanglements, the U.S. could become a truly free nation.
- Desire to avoid war: After the Revolutionary War, the new nation was tired of war and saw no reason to be militarily entangled with other countries. This sentiment was reinforced by President George Washington's warning against entangling alliances.
- Shift after World War I: Although the U.S. was pulled into World War I, isolationist sentiment returned in the aftermath, as Americans felt that Europe should govern its own affairs. This sentiment was also fueled by the belief that Europe was the center of problems, while the U.S. seemed politically calmer.