History concepts and overview

United States Foreign Policy

United States has enjoyed an important position in the international political scene, since its rise to power. The U.S. government has actively participated in international political issues, primarily for the sake of country's own interest. After the Second World War, United States emerged as one of the largest economies of the world and soon acquired the position of the "only super power." The history of the United States is evident that these were the foreign policies adopted by the country's administration that led the nation to advancement, greater power and wealth in a way that no other power has ever achieved.

While discussing the policy issues, policy makers argue that it is the national interest that guides them to define foreign policies of the country. Throughout history the national interest of the country has been influenced by the events and political issues of other nations. United States has always adopted the policy of supporting democracy, capitalism and morality world over. This motive to support democracy, capitalism and morality has influenced the foreign policy decisions of all the U.S. governments, whether they were Democrats or Republicans. (Abelson)

As discussed above, foreign policies of United States has involved national interests of the country in some way or another. We will therefore evaluate the foreign policies of U.S., for different regions, in the context of its national interests.

Europe:

Europe has always been in the priority list of foreign policy makers, primarily because of its economic importance. United States has tried to form close economic ties with European nations, especially those in Western Europe. It has formed several trade agreements with European nations in order to boost trade and economic cooperation. The primary interest of the U.S. government, in adopting a flexible and friendly policy towards Europe, has been in gaining access to European markets, which offer a great deal of business potential to American corporations. (Ryan)

Latin America:

In case of Latin American nations, U.S. government has not been much supportive. Although, Latin American countries are willing to form trade agreements with U.S., American government is unwilling to form any such trade alliance. The primary reason, for which United States has been hesitant in developing closer economic ties with Latin American countries, is that the U.S. government considers these markets as a threat to the American businesses. However, in recent years, several initiatives have been taken by the government to promote trade and economic activity with Latin American nations. NAFTA is a major step taken in this regard. (Ryan)

Middle East:

Middle East has been at the centre of the U.S. foreign policy because of the presence of Oil in the region. It has adopted a flexible approach to resolve the issue of Israel-Palestine conflict, supporting the initiatives for peace and at the same time taking measures to combat terrorism by imposing sanctions and embargos. U.S. government has always tried to maintain stability in the region because political and economic stability of this region is in best national interests of U.S., as the region is a major source of fuel for the country.

Far East:

The Far East Asian nations have emerged as an economic power and have posed challenges for Europe as well as the United States. Apart from the challenge that these regions pose to the country, the Far Eastern nations have become a huge market, having good business potential. This high level of business potential has attracted many American businesses, motivating them to invest in these markets. Realizing the growth potential in this region, American policy maker have responded accordingly and have taken measures to develop closer ties with these nations.