This new edition of Michael H. Hunt's classic reinterpretation of American diplomatic history includes a preface that reflects on the personal experience and intellectual agenda behind the writing of the book, surveys the broad impact of the book's argument, and addresses the challenges to the thesis since the book's original publication. In the wake of 9/11 this interpretation is more pertinent than ever. Praise for the previous edition: "Clearly written and historically sound. . . . A subtle critique and analysis."—Gaddis Smith, Foreign Affairs "A lean, plain-spoken treatment of a grand subject. . . . A bold piece of criticism and advocacy. . . . The right focus of the argument may insure its survival as one of the basic postwar critiques of U.S. policy."—John W. Dower, Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists "A work of intellectual vigor and daring, impressive in its scholarship and imaginative in its use of material."—Ronald Steel, Reviews in American History "A masterpiece of historical compression."—Wilson Quarterly “A penetrating and provocative study. . . . A pleasure both to read and to contemplate."—John Martz, Journal of Politics

A historical study that looks at America's path to global preeminence examines such key elements as wealth, confidence, and leadership in its rise to power, from the nineteenth century to today, and offers insight into the nation's problematic role in the modern-day world and options for the future.

Describes the values and misconceptions that shaped American foreign policy in Vietnam

An analysis of the role of the Johnson administration in the Vietnam War examines the ideological, political, strategic, and institutional factors that led to intervention; Johnson's decision to intensify the war; and the consequences of Vietnam, both at home and abroad.

Product Description: Repeatedly in the twentieth century, the United States has been involved in confrontations with other countries, each with the potential for widespread international and domestic upheaval, even disaster. In this book Michael H. Hunt focuses on seven such crises, presenting for each an illuminating introduction and a rich collection of original documents...read more

Looks at the open door policy, describes the trials of the Chinese immigrant, and analyzes foreign relations between the U.S. and China prior to World War I