How did the Great Depression affect international relationships?

The Great Depression had a profound impact on international relationships, primarily by damaging international trade. As countries faced severe economic downturns, many implemented protective tariffs and trade barriers to shield their domestic industries. This led to a cycle of retaliation, where nations imposed further tariffs on each other, resulting in a significant decline in global trade. Economic instability fostered distrust among nations, undermining international cooperation and exacerbating tensions. Consequently, countries that had been on the path to increased economic interdependence now turned inward, prioritizing their national interests over collaborative international efforts. This decline in trade and cooperation contributed to a more fragmented and hostile international environment, setting the stage for further conflicts in later years.