International outlook and support for League of Nations

The Rowntree family had a more international outlook than may of their contemporaries, perhaps linked to their family roots in Germany. Joseph was a pacifist in line with his Quaker beliefs and actively warned against the dangers of jingoism. Both Joseph and Seebohm, in their writings, used international comparisons to draw attention to problems at home. Joseph used the example of the state monopoly of liquor trade in Sweden as a model which could help to reduce alcohol abuse in Britain. The Rowntrees were prominent in calling for collective post-war unity following the First World War and were major supporters of the League of Nations. This is reflected in the war memorial plaque in Rowntree Park “The creation of a League of Nations will be a fitting crown to the faith and hope of the men who have fought and a true memorial to their endurance, heroism, comradeship and sacrifice.”