America’s foreign policy sets the standards of how the American government interacts with foreign nations and international organizations. It also articulates the standards that its citizens and corporations should interact with foreign nationals and their governments in the community of nations. After the attainment of independence in 1776, America’s foreign policy shifted to a non-interventionist approach. It maintained this approach during and after the end of World War I. However, the Cold War changed this by making America the only Super Power and an economic powerhouse. However, by the turn of the 21st century, the country had already adopted an idealistic school of thought with regards to international relations. This paper will compare and contrast the prevailing foreign policy at the beginning of both the 20th and 21st centuries. An attempt will be made to discuss the differences and the similarities that can be deducted from each of the epoch.
At the beginning of the 20th century, America was making significant strides internationally. It is during this century that it won two world wars together with its allies and ended up being the only Super Power after the Cold War. More significantly, its expansive economy increased its international reputation and the government was able to adequately equip its armed forces to unprecedented levels. On the other hand, in the beginning of the 21st century, American was not the only international force to reckon with. While it still remained strong and significant, its declining economy has made it vulnerable to the fast-rising economic powerhouses like China, Brazil, India and a rejuvenated Russia. It has also to contend with the European Union as the new kid on the block, who is not only strong and influential, but also competitive.
America’s foreign policy between 1900 and 1940 was essentially characterized by confidence and aggressive policies and measures. They were rarely cautious. American leaders of the time saw themselves as the leaders of the free world and the champions of liberty and freedom in the world. As a result, there were numerous intervention strategies that characterized the beginning of the 20th century. President Roosevelt was involved in the negotiations that led to the end of the war between Russia and Japan. His successor Howard Tatt propagated the dollar diplomacy thus promoting America’s corporate interests to global status. However, the turn of the 21st century introduced a new era in global politics and economics. America could no longer boast of unrivaled economic, military and political supremacy on its own amidst the community of nations. Therefore, a realistic and cautionary approach was adopted by the government. The government also embarked on an international diplomatic campaign to bring on board other influential nations to subscribe to this approach. Issues of terrorism, nuclear proliferation, climate change and nuclear terrorism were prioritized. Though the government was ready to wage war on nations perceived to harbor enemies of the state, a more cautionary attitude was adopted at the White House. In fact, dialogue with other nations was encouraged. Less subtle but also effective means like imposing trade sanctions and travel advisories started gaining prominence. During both periods, America’s foreign policy has been designed to protect the interest of the American citizens, and their corporations and organizations. It has also been used to champion for increased democratic space, foreign aid, military defence and promoting human rights.
Bibliography
Christie, Kenneth . United States Foreign Policy and National Identity in the 21st Century. New York: Taylor & Francis, 2009.
Schonberg, Karl K. Constructing 21st Century U.S. Foreign Policy: Identity, Ideology, and America's World Role in a New Era. New York: Palgrave Macmillan, 2009.
