Page "League of Nations" Paragraph 84

In January 1920, when the League was born, Germany was not permitted to join because it was seen as the aggressor in the First World War.

Soviet Russia was also initially excluded, as communist views were not welcomed by the victors of the war.

The League was further weakened when major powers left in the 1930s.

Japan began as a permanent member of the Council, but withdrew in 1933 after the League voiced opposition to its invasion of Manchuria.

Italy also began as a permanent member of the Council, but withdrew in 1937.

The League had accepted Germany as a member in 1926, deeming it a " peace-loving country ", but Adolf Hitler pulled Germany out when he came to power in 1933.