In the mid-20th century, the United States experienced a dramatic shift—from post-World War I isolationism to becoming the Arsenal of Democracy in WWII and a reluctant superpower during the Cold War. FDR’s leadership, despite isolationist pressures, helped lead the Allies to victory and set the stage for U.S. global leadership through the United Nations, the Bretton Woods System, the Marshall Plan, and the Japan Economic Miracle. Today, the U.S. faces increasing calls to step back from its global role. This course will explore these key moments, focusing on the presidencies of FDR, Truman, Eisenhower, and Kennedy, and the evolution of America’s superpower status.
LECTURE:
1. From Isolation to WWII: Explore Roosevelt’s mobilization for war, the New Deal, and America’s rise as a global power during World War II.
2. Global Leadership Shift: Analyze the transition from British to American leadership, the Truman presidency, and the beginning of the Cold War.
3. Kennedy, Johnson, and Vietnam: Examine the Kennedy-Johnson years, the Vietnam War, and Nixon’s historic opening to China.
4. Carter, Reagan, Clinton: Explore Carter’s human rights shift, Reagan’s Cold War end, and Clinton’s NATO expansion.
5. Bush-Cheney and the War on Terror: Study the impact of 9/11, the War on Terror, and America’s “unipolar moment” under Bush.
6. The Great Disruption: Analyze America’s shift from Obama to Trump, examining Trump’s “America First” stance and its impact on global leadership.
Jeffrey Steinberg, M.A., is an Adjunct Professor at Frederick College and Florida Gulf Coast University Academy, where he teaches in lifelong learning programs on topics in political science and social science research. With a background in consulting as Executive VP of PTB Global Advisors, he brings decades of experience to the classroom, serving both academic and international business audience.
"Great presentation and terrific amount of information."- OLLI Patron
Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture.
