What You Will Learn in HIS 5005: U.S. Foreign Policy

In this course, students will analyze key moments in U.S. foreign policy, from the foundational principles laid out in the 18th century to modern challenges faced by the U.S. in a globalized world. Topics will include the development of major foreign policy doctrines, the impact of wars and conflicts, diplomatic relations, economic policies, and the role of international organizations like the United Nations and NATO. Students will also explore how domestic politics, economic interests, and global power dynamics have shaped American actions on the world stage.

Key Topics Covered in HIS 5005: U.S. Foreign Policy

The course covers a wide range of important historical events and topics that have influenced U.S. foreign policy:

Foundations of U.S. Foreign Policy: Study the early influences on U.S. foreign policy, including George Washington’s farewell address and the Monroe Doctrine, which set the foundation for America’s role in the Western Hemisphere.
The Age of Imperialism and Expansion: Explore the expansion of U.S. territory, its imperialistic policies in Latin America and the Pacific, and the development of the “American Empire” in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
World War I and Its Aftermath: Understand how World War I and the Treaty of Versailles influenced the U.S.’s approach to international diplomacy and its initial reluctance to become involved in European entanglements.
The Interwar Period and the Rise of Isolationism: Examine the U.S.’s foreign policy during the interwar years, focusing on the isolationist sentiment, the Great Depression, and the lead-up to World War II.
World War II and the Postwar Order: Study U.S. involvement in World War II, the creation of the United Nations, and the establishment of the U.S. as a superpower with global influence in the postwar world.
The Cold War: Analyze U.S. foreign policy during the Cold War, focusing on containment, the Korean War, the Cuban Missile Crisis, the Vietnam War, and the arms race with the Soviet Union.
Post-Cold War and the Gulf War: Explore U.S. foreign policy in the post-Cold War era, including its approach to the Middle East, the Gulf War, and the shifting role of the U.S. in global geopolitics.
The War on Terror and the Middle East: Study U.S. foreign policy in the 21st century, focusing on the events of September 11, 2001, the War on Terror, the Iraq War, and U.S. relationships with the Middle East.
Modern Challenges in U.S. Foreign Policy: Examine contemporary issues in U.S. foreign policy, including global trade, climate change, international human rights, and U.S. relations with China, Russia, and other emerging powers.

Learning Objectives of HIS 5005: U.S. Foreign Policy

By the end of this course, students will:

Gain a comprehensive understanding of the development of U.S. foreign policy from its inception to the present.
Analyze key foreign policy doctrines, such as the Monroe Doctrine, the Truman Doctrine, and the Bush Doctrine, and their implications for U.S. actions.
Understand the historical context of major U.S. foreign policy decisions, including the causes and consequences of U.S. involvement in global conflicts.
Develop critical thinking skills to assess the effectiveness of U.S. foreign policy and its impact on international relations, diplomacy, and global security.
Learn how domestic politics, economic interests, and public opinion influence the direction of U.S. foreign policy.
Evaluate modern challenges in U.S. foreign policy and the evolving role of the United States in global affairs.
Understand the relationship between U.S. foreign policy and international organizations, treaties, and agreements.

Who Should Take HIS 5005: U.S. Foreign Policy?

HIS 5005 is ideal for students pursuing careers in history, political science, international relations, or government. This course is especially beneficial for:

History Majors: Students interested in understanding U.S. foreign policy from a historical perspective and its long-term impact on global politics.
Political Science Students: Those studying U.S. politics and foreign relations, with an emphasis on understanding the political, social, and economic forces shaping foreign policy decisions.
International Relations Students: Individuals pursuing international relations or diplomacy who want to study the policies and strategies of one of the world’s leading powers.
Public Policy Students: Students interested in understanding the political and economic factors that shape public policy, both domestically and internationally.
Government Professionals: Those working in government agencies or diplomatic services who want to deepen their knowledge of the U.S.’s global role and foreign policy strategies.
Anyone Interested in U.S. Global Influence: Individuals with an interest in understanding how the U.S. has shaped and been shaped by global events, conflicts, and diplomacy.