In 1941 Henry Luce proclaimed that, at last, the United States had entered an "American Century"—a pinnacle of imperial development beginning in the nation's earliest days. Sixty years after Luce's proclamation in Life magazine, the attack on the World Trade Center shattered our confidence in the historical imperative—our unstoppable march to hegemony.

Beginning in the earliest days of colonization, North Americans developed an aspirational vision that would be supported by foreign policy. Foreign policy—distinct from the much more limited realm of policy implementation through diplomacy —refers to the spectrum of contacts between nations. Political, social, military, and even cultural interactions on an international stage set the foundation for national development.

This historical trajectory from the colonial struggle for independence to great power competition in the 21st century forms the foundation for our exploration. This six-session seminar will examine critical issues in the development of American foreign policy from its origins in the colonial world until today.

The approach will be topical and wide-ranging, providing a forum for lively participant interaction as we trace how America's role in the world has evolved and what challenges lie ahead. Often overlooked topics such as racism, economic exploitation, and sexism will enrich our discussions. Participants will investigate pivotal moments, competing philosophies, and contemporary dilemmas that continue to shape America's place on the global stage.

Phil Deely grew up in Stockbridge Massachusetts, attended Hobart College for a BA in European History, and, then, continued westward to the University of Chicago for his MA. Phil did additional post degree coursework at Harvard University, the University of Maine, and Exeter College-Oxford University.

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