For better or worse-be it militarily, politically, economically, technologically, or culturally-Americans experienced a profound function in shaping the wider world beyond them. The United States has been a savior for some, a curse to others, but either way such views tend to be predicated on a caricature of American activities and intentions. American Foreign Relationships, then, is a topic of enormous global importance that provokes solid emotions and far debate, but frequently predicated on deep misunderstanding.

This Very Short Introduction analyzes the main element episodes, themes, and individuals in the history of American foreign relations. While talking about diplomacy and the periods of war which have formed national and worldwide history, it also addresses such topics as industrialization, globalization, imperialism, and immigration. Within the Revolution through the Battle on Terror, it examines the connections between home politics and international affairs, aswell as the need for ideals and values. Sharply created and highly interesting, American Foreign Relationships presents a clear-eyed narrative of America’s function in the globe and how they have evolved as time passes.