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Course Description

This course will trace the contours of U.S. foreign policy from its colonial origins through the destruction of the myth of isolationism produced by the attack on Pearl Harbor. Although the syllabus proceeds chronologically, the lectures and readings emphasize thematic continuities and discontinuities. These themes include the ideological, strategic, economic, cultural, and racial influences on America's foreign relations; mission, manifest destiny, and continental expansion; issues of war, peace, and security; crisis management and mismanagement; the closing frontier and imperialism; Wilsonianism and its critics; independent internationalism; and personal versus coalition diplomacy. Because the study of diplomatic history is highly interpretative, and the assigned studies reflect competing interpretations, all students will be expected to question, comment upon, and yes, even criticize the readings and lectures. In doing so, emphasis will be placed on recognizing and assessing the strategies historians employ to collect and use evidence in order to advance arguments. Students will be required to "volunteer" at the start of each session to summarize briefly and cogently the primary issues and arguments covered in the preceding one, and students should be prepared to respond to questions and references to the readings that will be incorporated into each session's lectures.
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Enroll Now - Select a section to enroll in
Section Title
HIST 3228 - America's Rise to Globalism
Type
Lecture
Days
M, W, F
Time
10:00AM to 10:50AM
Dates
Aug 25, 2025 to Dec 08, 2025
Schedule and Location
Contact Hours
35.0
Location
Delivery Options
Course Fee(s)
Section Notes

Thank you for registering for a Senior Scholars course! The Senior Scholars program is an auditing program for Temple graduates, as well as their spouses or partners, and other friends of Temple, age 50+. As an auditor, you will not receive a grade or academic credit for this course. A few days before the start of the semester, you will receive an email confirming your enrollment and providing more information on how to get started in your course.

This course will be meeting MWF from 10:00AM-10:50AM on Temple University's main campus from Monday, August 25th through Monday, December 8, 2025 in Mazur Hall, Room 5. 

Please note: classes are not held the following dates: Fri. Oct. 17th, or during Fall break: November 24-28, 2025

Instructor: Alan McPherson