What was a critical component of Wilson's vision for the League of Nations?

A critical component of Wilson's vision for the League of Nations was economic sanctions. Wilson believed that one of the primary functions of the League would be to maintain peace and prevent conflicts among nations through collective security. This involved member states acting together to impose economic sanctions on any aggressor nation that violated international laws or engaged in warlike behavior. By utilizing economic penalties, such as trade restrictions or financial embargoes, the League aimed to deter nations from resorting to military solutions to conflicts.

Wilson's conviction was that if countries knew they would face economic consequences for their aggressive actions, they would be less likely to engage in warfare. This emphasis on collective action through economic means highlighted the aspect of interdependence and cooperation that Wilson envisioned as essential to achieving lasting peace and stability in the international order.