Last modified: 28 Jun 2018 10:27
This course introduces students to the main outlines and issues in American (US) foreign policy since the beginning of World War II and to the cultural and ideological foundations of these policies. A “critical political historical” approach will be utilized. Key events, actions, personalities and policies will be focused upon. The underpinnings and forces that offer the most comprehensive explanations of the past record and the basis to anticipate the future behaviour of the United States in foreign affairs, including the ‘War on Terror’ and the current ‘pivot to Asia’ will be examined.
| Study Type | Undergraduate | Level | 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Term | Second Term | Credit Points | 30 credits (15 ECTS credits) |
| Campus | Old Aberdeen | Sustained Study | No |
| Co-ordinators |
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This course introduces students to the main outlines and issues in American foreign policy since the beginnings of World War II in 1939 and to the cultural and ideological foundations of these policies.
The roots of American foreign policy can be found in 16th century England, but the course traces America's 'rise to globalism' that occurred between 1939 and 1943. Three major periods are considered:
1. 1939-1946, World War II and its immediate aftermath;
2. 1947-1990, fighting and winning the Cold War, which at several times and places was a 'hot war' as in Korea, Vietnam and Afghanistan; and
3. 1990 to the present, the post-Cold War era.
The main focus will be the Cold War in Europe, Asia and the Third World: why this war was fought, how it was ?won,? and what winning it cost the United States and the rest of the world. The course will conclude with an analysis of US foreign policy today and its possible futures.
Main Learning Outcomes:
1. An understanding of the processes, theories, and empirical regularities of political institutions and political behavior in the student?s chosen emphasis area: American politics, comparative politics, or international relations.
2. An ability to employ critical thinking and demonstrate social scientific literacy, including basic quantitative literacy.
3. A capacity to utilize contemporary social science research methods to conduct rigorous research on political phenomena.
4. Effective written communication skills, especially the ability to convey complex concepts and information in a clear and concise manner.
5. An ability to apply abstract theory and research methods to understand contemporary political events and public policies.
Content:
The course will follow a general chronological approach to America foreign policy since World War II. Topcs that will be covered will include
The United States and the Onset of World War II; World War II in Europe and its Consequences.
World War II in Asia and its Consequences.
Origins of the Cold War.
The Truman Doctrine and Marshall Plan.
The Korean War.
The Second Eisenhower Administration: Hungary, Suez and Cuba.
John F. Kennedy and the New Frontier.
Case discussion of ?The Cuban Missile Crisis
Case discussion of ?Americanizing the Vietnam War.
Nixon?s policies in the Middle East and Africa.
"Covert Action in Chile, 1970-1973".
Jimmy Carter?s foreign policies.
Reagan and the Evil Empire.
?U.S. Marines in Lebanon.
Bush, the end of the Cold War and the Kuwait Crisis,
Clinton and Democratic Enlargement,
The Clinton Legacy and Rwanda, Bush and the Current Trajectory of American Foreign Policy.
Bush Doctrine and Pre-emption in Iraq, Future Projections and Legacies of Bush,
Obama and the first few years;
Information on contact teaching time is available from the course guide.
1st Attempt: 60% continuous assessment, 40% exam
Resit: 100% 3-hour exam
Oral feedback will be provided for participation in tutorials.
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