Hoover supported this international treaty, which renounced war as an instrument of national policy. However, it lacked enforcement mechanisms and proved ineffective in deterring Japanese aggression.
2. Stimson Doctrine (1932):
After Japan's invasion of Manchuria, Hoover's Secretary of State Henry Stimson issued a statement declaring the United States would not recognize any territorial changes resulting from aggressive acts. However, this policy was largely symbolic as it did not involve concrete actions.
3. Non-Recognition Policy:
The Hoover administration refused to recognize Japan's puppet state of Manchukuo, established after the invasion of Manchuria. This policy aimed to deny legitimacy to Japan's expansionism but had limited impact on Japan's actions.
4. Limited Economic Measures:
Hoover hesitated to take significant economic actions against Japan, fearing that they could further strain relations and potentially lead to war. He implemented some trade restrictions, but these were not sufficient to deter Japan's aggression.
5. Naval Disarmament:
Hoover's administration participated in the London Naval Treaty of 1930, which aimed to limit the size of naval forces among the major powers, including the United States and Japan. However, Japan's subsequent militarization rendered this treaty ineffective in preventing Japanese expansionism.
In summary, the Hoover administration's approach to Japanese expansionism was cautious and restrained. While it employed diplomatic measures such as non-recognition and limited economic sanctions, these efforts proved inadequate in preventing Japan's continued aggression and ultimately led to a further deterioration of relations between the United States and Japan.