Assignment 22: Policemen Of The World Final Paper Wee 297678
Assignment 22 Policemen Of The World Final Paperdue Week 10 And Wort
Develop a three to five (3-5) page academic paper that explores the U.S.'s role as a global policeman by analyzing two to three international events from the past five years linked to post-Civil War foreign policy, discussing three aspects of U.S. history since 1865 that have contributed to this role, identifying three to five international incidents since World War II where the U.S. acted as a policeman, and analyzing three to five driving forces behind these policy decisions. The paper should include an introduction with your thesis, detailed discussion of each point, and proper APA citations for at least three credible references. Ensure the paper is well-organized, clear, and concise, adhering to formatting guidelines: Times New Roman font size 12, double-spaced, with one-inch margins, including a cover page and a reference page. Carefully address all components to demonstrate understanding of U.S. international policy development and its impact on global leadership roles over time.
Paper For Above instruction
The United States' role as a global policeman has been a defining feature of its foreign policy since the late 19th century. This role involves the U.S. intervening in international conflicts and maintaining stability in various regions, often justified by national security interests, economic considerations, or the promotion of democracy. To understand this ongoing phenomenon, it is crucial to explore recent international events linked to historical policies, significant aspects of U.S. history fostering this role, and the driving factors behind specific policy decisions.
Introduction and Thesis Statement
The United States' evolution into the world’s predominant policeman is rooted in a complex interplay of historical developments, strategic interests, and international events. Over the past five years, the U.S. has responded to various crises that reflect broader foreign policy principles established since the Civil War. This paper aims to analyze recent international incidents linked to these policies, examine historical aspects that have contributed to this status, and identify the driving forces shaping American interventionist policies.
International Events from the Past Five Years Rooted in Post-Civil War Foreign Policy
One prominent example is the U.S. intervention in the Syrian Civil War, which intensified with the fight against ISIS. This engagement reflects the long-standing American interest in preventing the spread of radical terrorism, a policy continuum originating from Cold War doctrines of containment and regional stability. Another event is the U.S. involvement in Afghanistan, where military actions aim to eradicate terrorist threats but also serve to maintain regional stability and prevent threats to U.S. homeland security—concepts rooted in post-World War II foreign policy objectives. Additionally, the U.S. response to the Ukraine crisis exemplifies support for sovereignty and deterrence strategies that trace back to policies established after the Civil War, emphasizing protection of democracies against authoritarian aggression.
Aspects of US History Since 1865 Contributing to Its Role as a Superpower Policeman
Firstly, the doctrine of Manifest Destiny and territorial expansion in the late 19th century laid the foundation for U.S. intervention abroad, justified by the belief in spreading American values and stabilizing new regions. Secondly, the emergence of the U.S. as a global economic power after World War II propelled its international leadership, as economic strength translated into military and diplomatic influence. Thirdly, the Cold War rivalry with the Soviet Union entrenched the U.S.’s role in global policing as a counterforce to communism, which justified numerous interventions worldwide. These historical aspects combined to establish patterns of intervention and leadership that persist to this day.
International Incidents Since World War II Where America Acted as a Policing Power
One notable incident is the U.S. invasion of Iraq in 2003, justified by the threat of weapons of mass destruction and democracy promotion. This intervention exemplifies a policing role in stabilizing a perceived threat to regional and global security. Another incident is the NATO-led intervention in Kosovo in 1999, where the U.S. played a key role in preventing ethnic cleansing. A third example includes U.S. military involvement in Libya in 2011, where airstrikes authorized to enforce UN resolutions aimed to protect civilians and uphold regional stability. Additionally, more recent interventions in Syria and counter-ISIS operations further exemplify America's persistent policing role.
Driving Forces Behind Policy Decisions in International Incidents
Multiple factors drive U.S. international intervention policies. Firstly, national security concerns, such as counterterrorism objectives post-9/11, have been paramount in justifying military actions. Secondly, international treaties and alliances like NATO shape responses to crises, emphasizing collective defense and deterrence. Thirdly, domestic political considerations, including elections and public opinion, influence policymakers’ decisions to intervene or withdraw. Fourthly, economic interests and access to strategic resources often underpin intervention motives. Lastly, ideological commitments to promote democracy and human rights serve as moral justifications for certain actions, especially in the post-World War II era.
Conclusion
The United States' position as a global policeman emerges from its historical trajectory, strategic interests, and response to international crises. Recent events reaffirm this role, reflecting an extension of policies conceived during its rise to superpower status. Understanding the underlying forces—security concerns, alliances, domestic politics, economic interests, and moral imperatives—helps clarify why the U.S. continues to intervene globally. As this role evolves, future policies will likely be shaped by emerging geopolitical challenges and the ongoing legacy of its historical development.
References
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