American history from the late 1800s through the pre-World War I era witnessed a transformation in foreign policy. Imagine that you are preparing the introduction to a book that will cover American foreign policy before 1914. You will need to give some succinct, but essential background, beginning with the changes that took place in foreign policy and the reasons for those changes during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries.



First, list at least three topics you will want to cover. Then write one paragraph about each one. The information should relate only to foreign policy, between 1867 and 1914.

Change abounded between the end of the nineteenth century and the period following World War I. Choose one of the topics listed and describe the transformation that occurred. Be sure to include specific examples in your description.



Modernism

The Harlem Renaissance

The youth culture



In the 1930s, the Great Depression hit America hard, leading to Franklin D. Roosevelt's New Deal policies aimed at providing relief, recovery, and reform. The US entered World War II after the attack on Pearl Harbor, ultimately emerging victorious alongside allies against the Axis powers. The post-war period saw the rise of the Cold War, with tensions between the US and Soviet Union resulting in the Korean War and the Vietnam War.

The Civil Rights Movement gained momentum in the 1950s and 1960s, with landmark events like the Brown v. Board of Education decision, the Montgomery Bus Boycott, and the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. Legislation like the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965 helped to dismantle segregation and secure voting rights for African Americans.

The 1970s brought social and political upheaval, with movements for women's rights, LGBTQ+ rights, and environmental conservation gaining momentum. The Watergate scandal led to President Richard Nixon's resignation, and the country grappled with issues like stagflation and the energy crisis.

In the 1980s, Ronald Reagan's conservative policies shifted the government's focus towards deregulation and tax cuts, while also increasing military spending. The end of the Cold War and the fall of the Soviet Union marked a new era of global relations.

The turn of the 21st century brought challenges like the September 11th terrorist attacks, leading to the War on Terror and increased surveillance measures. Economic downturns like the Great Recession in 2008 highlighted the need for financial reform and support for struggling industries.

Today, America faces ongoing challenges such as income inequality, climate change, racial injustice, and political polarization. The country continues to grapple with its history and work towards a more equitable and inclusive society.