First-Year Seminar: History of U.S. Foreign Relations

3 units

This course presents a historical assessment of U.S foreign relations from the founding of the country in 1776 through the War on Terror in the 21st century. Starting with the bold claim that foreign policy has played a central role in shaping American history, the course traces America’s evolution from a small colony to the world’s only hyperpower through sustained foreign policy to keep European powers at bay and then out of the Western Hemisphere, followed by continental expansion and outward expansion to reach the farthest corners of the globe. In particular, it surveys many government institutions, agencies, and departments, colorful (and dull) personalities, numerous policies, treaties and agreements, and a plethora of key events that have shaped US foreign relations over time. Primarily a course diplomatic history that examines American statecraft through government to government relations, the course reveals how political, economic and military events, especially wars, have influenced policy and determined outcomes. Along the way, we will also explore major themes such as republicanism, empire, liberty, and independence, as well as chestnuts of grand strategy such as isolationism vs. engagement, realism vs. liberalism, unilateral vs. multilateralism, soft vs. hard power, and idealism vs. pragmatism. The course, then, is at once both diplomatic history and an analysis of how diplomacy has shaped the American character and the wider world—for better or worse. The course concludes with an assessment of the contemporary state and likely future of U.S.foreign relations. This course is limited to first year students.