The History of American Foreign Policy from 1895

Now in its fifth edition, this volume offers a clear, concise, and nuanced history of U.S. foreign relations since the Spanish–American War and places that narrative within the context of the most influential historiographical trends and debates.

The History of American Foreign Policy from 1895 includes both revised and new sections that incorporate insights from recent scholarship on the United States in the world. These sections devote more attention to the international framework as well as the domestic constraints under which American foreign policymakers operated. This edition also emphasizes the role of non-state actors such as missionaries, aid workers, activists, and business leaders in shaping policies and contributing to international relations. As a result, the text considers a broader and more diverse range of people and voices than many other histories of U.S. foreign policy. Expanded final chapters bring the story of U.S. foreign relations to the present and explore some of the contemporary challenges facing American and global leaders, including terrorism, the effects of climate change, China’s increasing influence, and globalization. Updated controversial issues sections and suggestions for further reading at the end of each chapter reflect important contributions from new studies.

This engaging text is an invaluable resource for students interested in the history of American foreign policy and international relations.