assignment 3: america as policemen in the world
The previous assignments focused on domestic matters in US history.
This last assignment explores America’s international role in recent
decades. By the mid-20th century, the
United States had become the dominant force in international relations.
Some have argued that the United States’ military functions as the
world’s “police.” This assignment covers the manner in which this shift
occurred and the consequences the United States faces as a result of its
status as “policeman of the world.” One can identify early steps this
direction well before World War II, but in this paper focus on the
period from the 1940s to the present. Take one of the positions as
suggested below, draw from the sources listed, and present a paper with
specific examples and arguments to demonstrate the validity of your
position.
Possible position—in each case you can take the pro or con position:
- The American “policing” role developed because of the Cold War, but
it became primarily a means for protecting and assisting economic
interests for itself and its allies as illustrated by recent events as
well as earlier ones. - The American “policing” role has been exercised primarily to protect
vulnerable peoples and regions from powerful oppressors or from
regional chaos, as illustrated by recent events as well as earlier ones. - The American “policing” role has had noble intentions and ultimate
success during the Cold War, but in fighting terror it has gotten off
track with some severe consequences. - A position you develop on this issue with the approval of your instructor.
After giving general consideration to your readings and your
research, select one of the positions above as your position—your
thesis. (Sometimes after doing more thorough research, you might choose
the reverse position. This happens with critical thinking and inquiry.
Your final paper might end up taking a different position than you
originally envisioned.) Organize your paper as follows, handling these
issues:
- The position you choose (from the list above)—or something close to it—will be the thesis statement in your opening paragraph.
- To support your position, use four specific examples from different
decades between 1950 and the present. (At least one example must be from
the last ten years). - Explain why the opposing view is weak in comparison to yours.
- Consider your life today: In what way does the history you have
shown shape or impact issues in your workplace or desired profession?
(This might be unclear at first since it is foreign policy. But,
super-power status does inevitably provide advantages in a global
economy.)
