This course examines U.S. foreign relations since WWII with a particular focus on the late twentieth century through modern day. Students will explore patterns of U.S. policy in a volatile environment marked by fundamental changes to the international system of states since the collapse of the Soviet Union. Students trace the transformation in international relations that has led to the creation of world trade and globalized institutions, the proliferation of regional ethnic and religious conflicts, and most challenging of all, the emergence of transnational terrorism. Students will have the opportunity to analyze the international system and relevant political theories, develop competence in defining both transient and enduring national interests, and build confidence in appraising the policy responses of national actors to those challenges.