An approach to US foreign policy that advocates non-participation in alliances or in the affairs of other nations. It derives its spirit from George Washington’s proclamation of neutrality in 1793, and was further confirmed by the Monroe Doctrine (1823). It foiled Woodrow Wilson in his attempt to take the USA into the League of Nations (1919 and 1920), and it hindered Franklin D. Roosevelt’s support for Britain, France, and China before and during World War II, by ensuring passage of restrictive Neutrality Acts (1935–37). Present-day isolationists favour political and military withdrawal from overseas bases as well as the establishment of a “fortress America” protected by an elaborate modern military system.