found the need to focus solely on issues directly concerning them. Avoiding conflict with surrounding nations was at the time what the U.S. decided was in their best interest. U.S. uninvolvement in foreign affairs from 1920-1930 proved to be beneficial to the American economy. In fact, one of the most peaceful and quiet periods in American foreign policy was during the 1920s. Prior to World War I, the U.S.A.’s foreign policy was primarily dictated by “The Monroe Doctrine” which was written by the Secretary of State, and future U.S. President John Quincy Adams. This doctrine was issued in 1823 by President James Monroe, and stated that any further European colonization of the Americas would be interpreted as an act of hostility. Furthermore, the doctrine insisted that the U.S.A would not interfere with the existing colonies of Europe, or interject itself in the affairs of …show more content…
died forever. The U.S. became very involved in the rebuilding and reconstruction of Europe through the Marshall plan. The U.S. was also a key player in the establishment of the United Nations in 1945, which again moved the U.S. away from isolationism. Another development at this time, was the growing tension with Soviet Union and her communist allies. For the next 4 or 5 decades the United States would be engaged with the U.S.S.R in the Cold War. The Cold War forced the U.S. to adapt many internationalist policies. While the U.S.S.R and U.S. never fought directly, or declared war on each other, they did engage in conflict through proxy countries. In places like Korea, Vietnam and Afghanistan, either directly or indirectly, the U.S. was involved in these conflicts.
The difference in U.S. foreign policy after WWI and after WWII is stark. After the U.S. citizens felt as if they were tricked into entering WWI, they became apprehensive of the greed of financial institutions and big business and subsequently demanded isolationism. After WWII, the U.S. citizens were apprehensive over the rise of communism, and demanded their government take an internationalist approach for their protection. It is hard to imagine that the U.S. will ever return to embracing isolationism in the