Foreign Policy Vocabulary

The Golden Age of Islam

Refers to a period in history when Islamic civilization flourished, particularly between the 8th and 14th centuries. During this time, many significant advancements were made in various fields such as science, mathematics, medicine, philosophy, art, and architecture.

Zionism

A movement founded by Jewish intellectuals in the late 19th century. “Zion” is a Hebrew word that is used to refer to the land of Jerusalem. Based on the idea that Jews were destined to return to their homeland.

Cold War

Refers to the period of political tension and military rivalry between the United States and its allies on one side and the Soviet Union and its allies on the other, roughly spanning from the end of World War II in 1945 to the dissolution of the Soviet Union in 1991. 

Truman Doctrine

A pivotal foreign policy initiative announced by U.S. President Harry S. Truman on March 12, 1947. It marked a significant shift in American foreign policy, declaring that the United States would support nations threatened by communism anywhere in the world.

Al Qaeda

A terrorist organization founded in 1988 by Osama bin Laden and other militants. One of the most infamous attacks attributed to Al Qaeda is the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks in the United States, where hijacked commercial airplanes were flown into the World Trade Center in New York City and the Pentagon near Washington, D.C. These attacks resulted in the deaths of nearly 3,000 people and prompted the United States and its allies to launch the War on Terror.

The Taliban

A group that started in Afghanistan in the 1990s. They ruled Afghanistan harshly, enforcing strict Islamic laws. They're known for giving shelter to terrorists like Osama bin Laden, which led to a war with the United States.

Drone Warfare

The use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to conduct military operations, such as surveillance and targeted strikes, without risking human pilots.

Kievan Rus’

A medieval state (9th–13th centuries) considered the cultural and political ancestor of both Russia and Ukraine.

Crimea Annexation (2014)

Russia’s seizure of Crimea from Ukraine, leading to ongoing conflict.

Taiwan Relation Act (1979)

U.S. law ensuring unofficial relations and arms sales to Taiwan after the U.S. recognized the PRC.

First Island Chain

Runs from Japan through Taiwan, the Philippines, and down to Malaysia. Taiwan is central to the First Island Chain — its location is seen as critical for controlling access to the western Pacific. China views U.S. alliances and military presence along this chain as a major obstacle to its regional ambitions. The United States considers Taiwan crucial for maintaining the First Island Chain, regional stability, and checking China's military expansion