Comprehensive U.S. Foreign Policy Strategies & Frameworks

What is the definition of a strategy in foreign policy?

A prudent idea or set of ideas for using instruments of power in an integrated way to achieve objectives.

What are the three components of a strategy?

Ends, Means, and Ways.

What do 'Ends' refer to in a strategy?

What we want to achieve, including national interests, political aims, and objectives.

What are 'Means' in the context of strategy?

The resources and capabilities available or that can be developed to achieve the ends.

What are 'Ways' in a strategic framework?

How the means are used to achieve the ends.

What does DIME stand for in terms of instruments of power?

Diplomacy, Information, Military, Economic.

What is the significance of George Washington's Farewell Address?

It emphasizes avoiding permanent alliances, maintaining neutrality, and the dangers of factionalism.

What was Benjamin Franklin's role in Revolutionary diplomacy?

He sought French support for the American Revolution through persuasion and strategic communication.

What was the Monroe Doctrine's primary objective?

To prevent European re-intervention in the Western Hemisphere and protect U.S. interests.

What is the 'tradition of isolation' in U.S. foreign policy?

A guiding principle of political isolation in peacetime and neutrality in wartime.

What was the outcome of the Spanish-American War?

It marked the U.S.'s imperial pivot, resulting in territorial gains and a shift in global posture.

What does the term 'pro-imperial ideology' refer to?

The belief that U.S. expansion is a destiny and necessary for markets and security.

What were the core arguments of the Anti-Imperialist League?

Imperialism contradicts self-government, corrupts liberty, and the consent of the governed applies abroad.

What is the 'Big Stick' policy associated with Theodore Roosevelt?

The idea of using the credibility of force behind diplomacy, summarized as 'speak softly, carry a big stick.'

What was the significance of the Panama Canal in U.S. foreign policy?

It provided strategic mobility for naval power and trade in the Western Hemisphere.

What were Woodrow Wilson's 14 Points?

An internationalist vision advocating for open diplomacy, self-determination, and collective security.

What was the impact of U.S. non-participation in the League of Nations?

It created a credibility gap and contributed to interwar instability.

What does the term 'policy whiplash' refer to in post-truth foreign policy?

A situation where foreign policy becomes narrative-driven rather than evidence-driven due to negotiable factual reality.

How does 'post-truth' affect threat perception in foreign policy?

It leads to bad threat perception, where invented dangers are prioritized over real dangers.

What is the importance of iterative assessment in strategy execution?

It allows for adapting to adversary moves and adjusting strategy as reality changes.

What does the term 'domestic vulnerability' imply in the context of foreign policy?

Polarization within a country makes coherent grand strategy difficult.

What was the strategic logic of the Louisiana Purchase?

It provided strategic depth and economic expansion for the U.S.

What role did the War of 1812 play in U.S. foreign policy?

It affirmed U.S. sovereignty and neutral rights against British interference.

What was the significance of the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo?

It resulted in significant territorial acquisition for the U.S. after the Mexican-American War.

What does 'coerce' mean in the context of strategic approaches?

To compel or force compliance through threats or pressure.

What is the concept of 'civilizational justification' in pro-imperial ideology?

The belief that U.S. expansion is a moral mission to civilize other nations.

What does 'strategic mobility' refer to?

The ability to move military and economic resources efficiently to respond to threats.

What is the impact of 'passionate attachments' in foreign policy?

They can lead to emotional biases that drag a nation into conflicts.

What does 'avoid entangling commitments' mean?

To refrain from forming permanent alliances that could lead to unwanted conflicts.

What economic conditions in the 1930s influenced U.S. isolationism?

The Great Depression and losses from WWI pushed the U.S. policy toward non-involvement.

What is the significance of the 'America First' movement?

'America First' became a reusable political symbol advocating for U.S. non-involvement in foreign conflicts.

What are the key characteristics of fascism?

Fascism includes authoritarian nationalism, mythic history, scapegoating/out-groups, and anti-liberal institutions.

How did Charles Lindbergh's actions reflect U.S. foreign policy debates?

Lindbergh's actions and 'A Night at the Garden' illustrate domestic contestation over engagement in foreign affairs.

What was the U.S. role in becoming a global power?

The U.S. shifted from a regional actor to an architect of an international order.

What was the significance of the Yalta Conference?

Yalta shaped postwar order through allied bargaining under uncertainty and established spheres of influence.

What does Article 51 of the UN Charter address?

Article 51 outlines the self-defense logic that states use to justify the use of force.

What is containment as described by George F. Kennan?

Containment is a strategic diagnosis of Soviet behavior emphasizing political/economic pressure and alliance cohesion.

What were the main components of the Truman Doctrine and Marshall Plan?

Both institutionalized containment by supporting threatened states, rebuilding economies, and anchoring alliances.

How do institutions contribute to the post-WWII order?

Institutions reduce transaction costs, lock in U.S. influence, and manufacture legitimacy.

What lessons were learned from the Vietnam War?

Key lessons include limits of military force, escalation traps, and misreading adversary nationalism.

What does Henry Kissinger argue about containment?

Kissinger views containment as historically contingent, requiring discipline and clear interests.

What is the Reagan Doctrine?

The Reagan Doctrine supports anti-communist movements and pressures the USSR indirectly.

What is Jeane Kirkpatrick's stance on U.S. foreign policy?

Kirkpatrick argues for distinguishing types of regimes and being realistic about change timelines in U.S. policy.

What defines the 'unipolar moment' of the 1990s?

The U.S. power was unmatched, presenting both opportunities to shape order and risks of overreach.

What was the purpose of NATO enlargement after the Cold War?

NATO enlargement aimed to stabilize the post-Soviet security vacuum and address Russian threat perceptions.

What was the Iraq Liberation Act of 1998?

It marked a legal/political aspiration for regime change in Iraq, indicating that Iraq policy predated 9/11.

What were the reasons for the 2003 invasion of Iraq?

Reasons included threat perception (WMD), credibility after 9/11, neocon ideology, and alliance politics.

What was the George W. Bush Freedom Agenda?

It framed liberty as a global mission, linking democracy promotion to U.S. security policy.

What does the critique 'bad idea, badly executed' refer to?

It separates decision quality from execution quality in evaluating the Iraq War.

How does Trump's foreign policy challenge the post-WWII order?

Trump's approach creates friction with treaties and organizations established by the U.S.

What are the core mechanics of the President vs Congress in foreign policy?

The President acts as commander-in-chief, while Congress has the power to declare war and regulate commerce.

What is meant by 'imperial presidency'?

It refers to the modern presidency's expansion through emergencies and unilateral actions, often criticized for eroding accountability.

What characterizes a 'unilateralist/anarchic presidency'?

This presidency type exhibits less institutional continuity, more personalized bargaining, and higher volatility.

What are the key differences between Biden's and Trump's National Security Strategies?

Biden emphasizes competition and cooperation, while Trump focuses on prioritization and burden-shifting.

What does the term 'Donroe Doctrine' refer to?

It signifies a revival of the Monroe Doctrine to justify sharper hemispheric control.

What was the core theme of early U.S. foreign policy?

Avoid entangling alliances with European powers while engaging in trade and building power through continental expansion.

What does selective engagement in U.S. foreign policy mean?

It means avoiding European power politics while consolidating strength at home and in the hemisphere.

What was the significance of diplomacy during the Revolutionary War?

Diplomacy was essential for gaining money, supplies, naval power, legitimacy, and a great-power partner to balance Britain.

What was the Treaty of Alliance with France in 1778?

It marked a huge shift in the balance of power, as France recognized the U.S. and allied with it against Britain.

What was the outcome of the Treaty of Paris in 1783?

It ended the Revolutionary War and resulted in significant territorial expansion for the U.S., including land east of the Mississippi.

What were the key motivations for France to support the U.S. during the Revolutionary War?

France aimed to weaken Britain, seek revenge for past losses, and shift the global balance of power.

What was the context of U.S. foreign policy in the 1790s?

The U.S. faced challenges from the French Revolution and the war between Britain and France, testing its ability to maintain independence.

What were the differing views of Hamilton and Jefferson on foreign policy?

Hamilton favored stability and closer ties with Britain, while Jefferson supported revolutionary republicanism and sympathized with France.

What was the Washington Proclamation of Neutrality?

Announced in 1793, it aimed to keep the U.S. neutral in the conflict between Britain and France, buying time for the young nation.

What is the core doctrine presented in Washington's Farewell Address?

To steer clear of permanent alliances with foreign nations.

What does 'realist Washington' refer to?

It emphasizes the need for checks on power, avoidance of sentimental attachments, and caution against overgrown militaries.

What is the significance of temporary alliances according to Washington?

They should only be formed for extraordinary emergencies.

What does the commercial republic logic entail?

It promotes trade with all nations while minimizing political connections in commerce.

How does geography influence U.S. foreign policy?

The U.S.'s detached and distant situation shapes its strategy and elements of power.

What was the Louisiana Purchase?

In 1803, the U.S. bought Louisiana from France for $15 million, significantly increasing its territory.

What was the outcome of the War of 1812?

It led to increased respect for the U.S. and was marked by the Treaty of Ghent, restoring relations with Britain.

What was the strategic rationale for the Florida Purchase in 1819?

To remove a destabilizing border zone and improve control over the Southeast.

What does John Quincy Adams mean by America being an example, not a crusader?

America should represent liberty without seeking to impose its values through force.

What was the Monroe Doctrine of 1823?

It stated that the U.S. would not interfere in European affairs and that European powers should not colonize or intervene in the Western Hemisphere.

What were the key aims of the Monroe Doctrine?

To prevent European colonization in the Americas and to protect U.S. interests without meddling in European affairs.

What was the significance of the phrase '54°40' or Fight'?

It was a slogan during the Oregon boundary dispute with Britain, emphasizing U.S. claims to the territory.

What triggered the war with Mexico regarding Texas?

The annexation of Texas in 1845 intensified conflicts over slavery and territorial expansion.

What was the Mexican-American War?

A conflict from 1846 to 1848 between the U.S. and Mexico, resulting in significant territorial gains for the U.S.

What treaty ended the Mexican-American War?

The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo

What was a key concern of opponents to the Mexican-American War?

The expansion of slavery into new territories.

What symbolic event occurred during the Mexican-American War?

The capture of Mexico City and the symbolism of 'Los Niños Héroes.'

How much did the U.S. pay Mexico in the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo?

$15 million

What was the Gadsden Purchase?

A 1854 agreement where the U.S. bought land from Mexico for $10 million to facilitate a southern railroad route.

What was the core diplomatic strategy during the Civil War?

Preventing British and French recognition of the Confederacy.

What was the Trent Affair?

A diplomatic incident during the Civil War involving the interception of a British ship carrying Confederate diplomats.

What was the Monroe Doctrine?

A U.S. policy opposing European colonialism in the Americas.

What did Napoleon III do in Mexico that violated the Monroe Doctrine?

He installed Maximilian as emperor of Mexico.

What was the significance of the Alaska Purchase?

The 1867 acquisition of Alaska for $7.2 million, illustrating long-term strategic thinking in U.S. expansion.

What characterized the U.S. economy post-Civil War?

An economy-first posture with a small State Department and a focus on commercial diplomacy.

What is Kupchan's view on isolationism?

Isolationism is the default setting for the U.S., with internationalism being the exception.

What was the significance of 1898 in U.S. history?

It marked the beginning of U.S. overseas expansion and imperialism following the Spanish-American War.

What territories did the U.S. acquire after the Spanish-American War?

Hawaii, Puerto Rico, the Philippines, Guam, and Cuba.

What were the motivations for the Spanish-American War?

Humanitarian concerns, economic interests, domestic politics, and strategic opportunities.

What phrase did John Hay use to describe the Spanish-American War?

'A Splendid Little War.'

What did John Quincy Adams warn against in 1821?

Going abroad 'in search of monsters to destroy.'

What was Beveridge's argument for imperialism?

The U.S. had a providential mission to expand and civilize, driven by economic and strategic interests.

What was the Anti-Imperialist League's main argument?

That imperialism violated the principles of consent and republican identity.

What was the significance of the Philippine-American War?

It highlighted the complexities of U.S. power and control, with significant casualties and a shift to guerrilla warfare.

What does 'Big Stick' diplomacy refer to?

The approach of negotiating peacefully while simultaneously threatening with military force.

What did the Roosevelt Corollary add to the Monroe Doctrine?

It justified U.S. intervention in Latin America to maintain stability and order.