The US has a long history of shuffling between engagement and withdrawal regarding
the international community. America’s post-Revolutionary period serves as a story of fear,
protectionism, and domestic focus that shaped the present foreign policy of the country. So, let’s take a quick look at the causes, history, and overall impact of American Isolationism.
British Colonization of North America
The British colonization of North America in the 17th and 18th centuries greatly
impacted development of the relationship between the United States and the rest of the world.
The British used the newly found territory for exploiting natural resources and creating
opportunities for further economic growth. Therefore, the colonies were subject to various
forms of taxation and limited in trade and commerce through various Navigation Acts
imposed by the British. All these factors fuelled a sense of resentment and individualism
among the colonists.
The Legacy of the American Revolution. Early Isolationism.
Dissatisfied with British control over the land’s resources, commerce and governance,
colonists occupying the Thirteen Colonies rallied against the Kingdom of Great Britain. After
a protracted struggle to gain independence, the British formally recognized the United States’ sovereignty in 1783. Now an autonomous nation, the United States focused on territorial expansion, aiming to secure their rule in the area and shape its national identity. Therefore, meddling in the business of European matters was mostly avoided. This strategy was applied until the end of the 19th century.
A decisive point for the implementation of American isolationism within this time
frame is the introduction of the Monroe Doctrine (1823). It stated that the US would no
longer accept European colonization in the Americas. This set up the idea that the Western
Hemisphere is the US’ sphere of influence and played a relevant part in the gradual
decolonization of Latin America.
The US as a Global Power. Industrialization and Immigration.
1898 was a crucial year in the development of the US’ foreign policy. The end of the
Spanish-American War established the US as a global military power. The country’s
economic interests also demanded an increase in international trade, which led to a greater
need for a more active foreign policy.
In 1899, the Open Door Policy was introduced, which stated that China was to be kept
open to trade with all countries on an equal basis. This marked a shift in US foreign policy, as the country took a more active role in promoting its international interests.
However, this sudden change did have its downsides: rapid industrialization and
massive immigration waves stirred fear and uncertainty in the population. Thus, the US
embraced isolationism once again, in order to deal with these new challenges.
The 20th Century. A Hot (not-so-isolated) Mess.
World War I left Europe traumatized: massive loss of life and widespread destruction
shook people to the core. So, in the 1920s, preferring not to directly interfere in Europe’s
struggle, the US focused on addressing national problems such as prosperity and nativism
(anti-immigration and productivism sentiments re-emerged, which reinforced isolationist
tendencies).
The end of the 1920s saw the beginning of one of the greatest financial crises in
World history, the Great Depression. Once again, the US embraced isolationism, focusing on individual economic recovery.
During World War II, the US played a big part in defeating Hitler and his allies. The
significant financial aid the US provided for Europe’s recovery after WW2 through the
Marshall Plan was another sign that isolationism was gone for good (at least for the moment).
Now that WWII was over, the United States had another difficult, complex challenge
waiting: the Cold War. Containing the Soviet Union and reestablishing national security in
such conditions led to limited engagement with the global community.
The Uncertainty of the Present.
With events that threaten national integrity, such as the September 11 attacks, the
re-emergence of isolationist tendencies seems only natural. American involvement in the
Middle East also raises concerns among the population. Thus, “America First” policies have
been gaining popularity among the masses. However, various political leaders advocate for
various views on political engagement, and there is vast opposition to the isolationist agenda.
All in all, the US continues to grapple between international involvement and
independent development, depending on the political, economic, and social landscape.
Sources:
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