Global Influence and Democratic Ideals

American Foreign Policy

"America goes not abroad in search of monsters to destroy.She is the well-wisher to the freedom and independence of all.She is the champion only of her own."- John Quincy Adams (1821), 6^th US President

From its cautious beginnings, the United States has wrestled with its role in the world. First, it sought to avoid foreign conflicts, then it asserted its regional dominance, and finally, it was thrust onto the global stage by world wars. The Cold War defined its role as a defender of democracy, and 9/11 reshaped its focus to counterterrorism. Now, the nation grapples with a familiar question: how to balance its own interests with its responsibilities to a complex world.

1. Foundational Phase (1789–1823)

This period laid the groundwork for U.S. foreign relations, characterized by a focus on neutrality and the establishment of key diplomatic principles.

The primary intention was to ensure stability and avoid entanglements in European conflicts while laying the groundwork for international diplomacy.

Neutrality Proclamation (1793): Issued by President George Washington, this proclamation declared that the United States would remain neutral in conflicts between European powers. It was a key statement of non-interventionism, reflecting the desire to avoid being drawn into the wars that were ravaging Europe at the time, particularly the conflicts resulting from the French Revolution. This policy defined U.S. foreign relations for years to come.

Jay's Treaty (1794): This treaty, negotiated by Chief Justice John Jay, was intended to resolve outstanding issues between the United States and Great Britain that had remained unresolved from the American Revolutionary War. It aimed to prevent further conflict and opened up trade17 between the two nations. While it successfully averted war, it was controversial in the U.S. and led to increased tensions with France, as it was perceived to favor British interests.

XYZ Affair (1797-1798): This diplomatic incident involved a confrontation between the U.S. and France, where French agents (referred to as XYZ) demanded bribes from American diplomats to initiate negotiations. The incident escalated tensions, leading to an undeclared naval conflict. The affair contributed to an anti-French sentiment in the U.S. and highlighted the challenges of maintaining neutrality amid growing international disputes. The XYZ Affair created the context in which the Federalist Party could justify and pass the Alien and Sedition Acts of 1798. These acts were ostensibly aimed at protecting national security, but they were also used to suppress political opposition, particularly from the Democratic-Republican Party.

Why It Matters Today: The principle of neutrality established during this phase continues to inform current debates over America's role in foreign wars and alliances. The U.S. often grapples with the question of when to intervene in international conflicts versus when to maintain a stance of neutrality. This historical context significantly influences public opinion and policy decisions, particularly regarding military intervention, peacekeeping, and the responsibilities of a global leader. 

2. Expansion and Manifest Destiny (1823–1898)

In 1845, journalist John L. O'Sullivan published an article in the Democratic Review where he coined the term "Manifest Destiny," asserting that it was America's divine right to expand across the continent; the idea that the United States was destined to spread democracy and civilization. Proponents of Manifest Destiny believed that American culture and society were superior to those of Native Americans and other nations, creating a moral justification for expansion. The aim was to spread democracy and American values, as well as to secure economic interests and territorial gains.

Monroe Doctrine (1823): Announced by President James Monroe, asserting that the Western Hemisphere was no longer open to European colonization and warned European powers against interfering in the affairs of newly independent nations in Latin America. It represented a significant shift in U.S. foreign policy, establishing the Americas as a sphere of influence for the United States and laying the groundwork for future interventions in Latin America.

Texas Annexation (1845): After gaining independence from Mexico in 1836, Texas was an independent republic until it was annexed by the United States in 1845. The annexation was driven by the desire to expand U.S. territory and was contentious due to its implications for the expansion of slavery. This act increased tensions with Mexico, ultimately leading to the Mexican-American War.  

Spanish-American War (1898): This conflict arose from U.S. support for Cuba's fight for independence from Spain and concerns over Spanish colonial rule. The war lasted only a few months and resulted in a decisive American victory, leading to U.S. control over territories such as Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines. This moment marked the U.S.'s emergence as a global power with colonial interests.

Why It Matters Today: The legacy of Manifest Destiny continues to influence views on American exceptionalism and the nation's role in promoting democracy abroad. Current discussions about U.S. intervention in foreign countries often echo past justifications for expansion and influence. 

3. Emergence as a Global Power (1898–1918)

During this period, the U.S. emerged as a significant global player, asserting its influence through military intervention and diplomatic initiatives. The intention was to protect American interests abroad and assert U.S. power in a rapidly changing global landscape.

Open Door Policy (1899):  The Open Door Policy aimed to ensure that all nations would have equal trading rights in China. It was a response to concerns that European powers were carving China into spheres of influence, limiting trade opportunities. The U.S. sought to maintain access to Chinese markets and prevent any single power from monopolizing trade.

Roosevelt Corollary (1904): This policy expanded upon the Monroe Doctrine by asserting that the U.S. could intervene in Latin American countries to stabilize them and prevent European intervention. It justified U.S. military action in the region under the premise of maintaining order and protecting American investments, ultimately establishing the U.S. as a dominant influence in the Western Hemisphere.

Panama Canal (1904-1914): The construction of the Panama Canal was completed in 1914, significantly enhancing U.S. maritime trade and military strategy. The U.S. facilitated Panama's independence from Colombia, subsequently securing control over the canal zone. This project exemplified the "Big Stick" diplomacy of President Theodore Roosevelt, demonstrating America’s commitment to expanding its influence in Latin America and asserting itself as a dominant power on the global stage.

World War I (1917): Initially reluctant to enter World War I, the U.S. was spurred into action by events such as the German submarine attacks on American ships and the discovery of the Zimmermann Telegram, in which Germany encouraged Mexico to attack the U.S. The U.S. declared war on Germany in April 1917, marking a pivotal shift in its role on the world stage as an active participant in global conflict.

Why It Matters Today: The rise of the U.S. as a global power during this period set the stage for its future role in international affairs, influencing ongoing discussions about military engagement, trade policies, and the promotion of democracy. Contemporary foreign relations continue to reflect the challenges and strategies that emerged during this transformative era. 

4. Isolationism and World War II (1919–1945)

Following World War I, the United States largely retreated into isolationism, focusing on domestic issues and avoiding involvement in international conflicts until the onset of World War II necessitated active engagement.

Treaty of Versailles (1919):  This treaty formally ended World War I and imposed harsh reparations and territorial adjustments on Germany. The United States played a significant role in its negotiation but did not join the League of Nations due to Senate opposition, which reflected a shift towards isolationism.

League of Nations (1920): Established by the Treaty of Versailles, the League aimed to promote international cooperation and prevent future conflicts through diplomatic means. However, the absence of the United States significantly weakened the League's effectiveness, as it lacked American support.  

Kellogg-Briand Pact (1928): Signed by 63 countries, this pact aimed to renounce war as a means of resolving disputes. While it reflected noble aspirations for peace, it did not establish enforcement mechanisms, relying on the goodwill of signatories. Its ineffectiveness in preventing aggression highlights the limitations of diplomatic efforts in the face of rising tensions leading up to World War II.

Lend-Lease Act (1941): Before formally entering World War II, this act allowed the U.S. to provide military aid to Allied nations, particularly the United Kingdom and later the Soviet Union. This assistance included weapons, supplies, and vehicles, which sustained their war efforts against the Axis powers and delayed direct American military involvement.

Attack on Pearl Harbor (1941): On December 7, Japan launched a surprise attack on the U.S. naval base at Pearl Harbor, resulting in significant damage and over 2,400 American casualties. This event prompted the US to declare war on Japan the following day, marking a pivotal shift to active engagement in WWII.

Creation of the United Nations (1945): Established after World War II, the United Nations aimed to promote international cooperation, maintain peace, and prevent future wars. The U.S. played a critical role in its founding, reflecting a commitment to multilateralism and collective security. The UN was designed to address issues of diplomacy, humanitarian aid, and conflict resolution.

Why It Matters Today: The isolationist tendencies of this era resonate with ongoing debates about America’s involvement in international affairs and military engagements. Contemporary discussions about foreign aid, military interventions, and national security continue to reflect the complexities of balancing national interests with global responsibilities, illustrating how historical choices influence current policy decisions.

5. Cold War Era (1947–1991)

The Cold War defined U.S. foreign policy for nearly half a century, a struggle against communism and the Soviet Union. The central intention was to contain the spread of communism and promote democracy globally while maintaining a balance of power to ensure U.S. security interests.

Truman Doctrine (1947): This policy established the U.S. commitment to support nations resisting communism, particularly in Greece and Turkey. President Harry S. Truman argued that U.S. support was necessary to prevent the spread of totalitarianism and to protect free peoples.

Marshall Plan (1948): Officially known as the European Recovery Program, this initiative provided economic assistance to help rebuild Western European economies that had been devastated by World War II. By fostering financial stability, the U.S. aimed to counter the appeal of communism and promote democratic governments.

Formation of NATO (1949): The North Atlantic Treaty Organization was established as a military alliance among the United States and  Western European countries. It provided collective security, meaning that an attack on one member would be considered an attack on all, thereby deterring Soviet expansion.

Korean War (1950-1953): The conflict began when North Korea, backed by the Soviet Union and China, invaded South Korea. The U.S. intervened under the auspices of the United Nations to defend South Korea, viewing it as a critical front in the struggle against communism. The war ended in a stalemate, with an armistice that solidified the division of Korea. 

Cuban Missile Crisis (1962): A 13-day confrontation between the U.S. and the Soviet Union arose after the discovery of Soviet nuclear missiles in Cuba. The crisis brought the world to the brink of nuclear war; however, it ended with a negotiated settlement that led to the withdrawal of Soviet missiles from Cuba in exchange for a U.S. promise not to invade the island.

Vietnam War (1955-1975): The U.S. became involved in Vietnam to prevent the spread of communism in Southeast Asia, adhering to the domino theory. The protracted conflict deeply divided American society and raised questions about U.S. foreign policy and military intervention.

Fall of the Berlin Wall (1989): This event symbolized the collapse of communist regimes in Eastern Europe and the reunification of Germany. It marked the decline of Soviet influence and paved the way for democratic transitions in the region.

Why It Matters Today: The Cold War has left a lasting impact on international relations and U.S. foreign policy. Current geopolitical tensions often reflect the ideological divides established during this era. The commitment to contain threats from countries perceived as hostile, as well as the legacy of alliances formed during the Cold War, still shape contemporary global politics.

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6. Post-Cold War and Globalization (1991–2001)

The dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991 marked the end of the Cold War. It ushered in an era where the United States emerged as the sole superpower, embracing globalization and redefining its role in international relations. The intention was to promote democracy, free markets, and global cooperation while addressing emerging conflicts and fostering economic integration across nations.

Gulf War (1990-1991): Triggered by Iraq's invasion of Kuwait, the Gulf War showcased U.S. military power under a United Nations mandate. A coalition of nations led by the U.S. successfully expelled Iraqi forces, reinforcing the U.S.’s role as a leader in international conflict resolution.

NAFTA (1994): The North American Free Trade Agreement established a free trade zone between the United States, Canada, and Mexico. It aimed to promote economic growth by reducing trade barriers and fostering investment.

Intervention in the Balkans (1990s): The U.S. intervened in the conflicts in Bosnia and Kosovo to stop ethnic cleansing and promote stability in the Balkans. These interventions marked a shift in U.S. foreign policy towards more aggressive peacekeeping and humanitarian missions in the post-Cold War context.

Expansion of NATO (1999): The North Atlantic Treaty Organization welcomed several former Eastern Bloc countries, including Poland, Hungary, and the Czech Republic, as members. This expansion aimed to promote democracy and security in Eastern Europe, but it also heightened tensions with Russia.

Why It Matters Today: The post-Cold War era laid the foundation for contemporary global dynamics, with the United States increasingly involved in international trade, collective security, and humanitarian interventions. The principles of globalization, free trade, and democratic expansion established during this period continue to shape current economic policies and diplomatic strategies.

7. War on Terror & Contemporary Challenges (2001–2024)

Following the September 11 attacks in 2001, the focus of U.S. foreign policy shifted towards counterterrorism and addressing global security threats, reshaping America’s role in international relations. The primary intention was to protect national security, combat terrorism, and address emerging geopolitical challenges while promoting democracy and human rights.

September 11 Attacks (2001): In a coordinated effort, terrorists from al-Qaeda hijacked four commercial airplanes, crashing two into the World Trade Center towers in New York City and one into the Pentagon. The fourth plane, United Flight 93, was diverted by passengers and crashed in Pennsylvania. The attacks resulted in nearly 3,000 deaths and marked a pivotal moment in U.S. history.

Wars in Afghanistan (2001-Present) and Iraq (2003-2011): Following the 9/11 attacks, the U.S. invaded Afghanistan to dismantle al-Qaeda and remove the Taliban from power, aiming to prevent future terrorist attacks. In 2003, the U.S. also invaded Iraq, based on claims that the Saddam Hussein regime possessed weapons of mass destruction, threatening the U.S. 

Creation of the Department of Homeland Security (2003): Established to coordinate national efforts against terrorism and protect U.S. borders and infrastructure, the Department of Homeland Security centralizes various agencies focused on domestic security.

Global Coalition Against ISIS (2014): A multinational coalition was formed to combat the rise of the Islamic State (ISIS) in Iraq and Syria. The effort included airstrikes, training local forces, and providing humanitarian aid, reflecting the ongoing U.S. commitment to fight terrorism globally.

The Paris Agreement (2015): A significant international treaty aimed at combating climate change, marking a shift towards addressing global environmental challenges. While primarily an environmental initiative, it showcased the U.S.'s role in international cooperation on pressing global issues.

Support for Ukraine (2022-2024): In response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, the U.S. has provided substantial military and economic assistance to support Ukraine's defense and sovereignty. This commitment reflects a renewed focus on protecting democratic institutions and countering authoritarian aggression.

Why It Matters Today: The ongoing commitment to counterterrorism, the implications of wars in the Middle East, and the challenges of addressing authoritarianism and promoting democracy remain central to current discussions about national security, international diplomacy, and the United States' role on the global stage. 

8. Shifting Dynamics and Nationalism (2025 - Present)

This phase reflects a significant shift in American foreign policy under the second Trump administration, moving toward a more nationalistic and transactional approach that re-evaluates traditional U.S. alliances and commitments. The intention is to prioritize American interests, challenge existing international norms, and reassess commitments to foreign democratic movements.

Withdrawal from International Agreements:

• Withdrawal from the World Health Organization (WHO): The administration halted U.S. funding and announced its withdrawal from the WHO, citing concerns over the organization's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and political biases.

• Withdrawal from the Paris Agreement: The administration reaffirmed its withdrawal from this global climate accord, framing it as necessary to protect American workers and industries while generating criticism for undermining international climate initiatives.

  
  

Ukraine Support and Security Commitments: The administration implemented reductions to security assistance programs for Ukraine in the context of the ongoing conflict with Russia. This decision, often accompanied by demands that European allies significantly increase their own defense contributions, has raised concerns about the long-term U.S. commitment to Ukraine's sovereignty and to the NATO alliance's Article 5 principle of collective defense.

Negotiation in the Middle East (Israel/Gaza): The administration took an active role in the region, focusing on de-escalation rather than long-term peace frameworks. Efforts included direct engagement to broker a negotiated cease-fire between Israel and Hamas, which involved complex diplomacy regarding the release of hostages held in Gaza. 

Action Against Iran's Nuclear Program: In a high-stakes move aimed at preventing nuclear proliferation, the administration authorized targeted, non-conventional operations against suspected Iranian nuclear facilities. These actions have been controversial, significantly escalating tensions in the Middle East and drawing criticism from international bodies.

Immigration Enforcement and Deportation: The administration significantly expanded and intensified mass deportation policies, focusing on large-scale domestic enforcement operations and rapidly increasing removals nationwide. Visa limitations and border reinforcement remain strict, prioritizing national security and immigration reduction.

Trade Relations: The continuation of trade disputes with China exemplified a focus on protecting domestic industries. Tariffs and trade restrictions were employed to challenge perceived unfair trading practices and to secure favorable economic terms, often resulting in increased costs for American consumers and businesses that rely on global supply chains.

Strain on Alliances: The approach has led to potential strains on traditional alliances, particularly with NATO and European partners. The administration pressured allies to increase their defense spending and viewed partnerships through the lens of direct benefits to the U.S.

Why It Matters Today: The changes in U.S. foreign policy during this phase underscore a significant shift toward nationalism and a reconsideration of America's role on the global stage. This "America First" approach reshapes international alliances, impacts global cooperation on pressing issues, such as security, trade, and climate change, and forces voters to assess the balance between immediate national interests and long-term international responsibilities.