Brian G. Casserly
Foreign policy of the United States government during the twentieth century. International wars and the other major episodes in diplomacy are emphasized.
Relations between the United States and the rest of the world from the late 1800s to the early 21st century, including wars, economics, cultural interactions, etc. We will examine the role played by the government in its relations with other nations, as well as how U.S. foreign relations were shaped by non-governmental actors, e.g. businesspeople, the news media, ordinary Americans, etc.
Student learning goals
Students should understand the causes and consequences of the key developments in U.S. foreign relations in the 20th century.
Students should understand some of the debates over interpretations of 20th century U.S. foreign relations.
Students should be familiar with the key documents in U.S. foreign relations in the 20th century and be able to critically evaluate those documents.
Students should be able to use evidence to write thesis driven papers that analyze and critically evaluate key developments in U.S. foreign relations history.
General method of instruction
Lecture and discussion
None, but a good general knowledge of U.S. history will be very helpful.
Class assignments and grading
The actual assignments have yet to be finalized but are likely to include a midterm and final exam, regular class discussions, some short papers and/or short in-class quizzes/writing assignments, and a longer research project.