July 2, 2026
For 250 years, the United States has shaped global politics — sometimes stepping back, often stepping in. But is it really as simple as a story of isolation versus intervention?
For 250 years, US foreign policy has shaped global affairs through both military intervention and diplomacy. DW examines the debate over isolationism versus engagement, drawing on data showing more than 500 US interventions from the 1800s to today.
From Latin America and Vietnam to Iraq and the Middle East, goals have shifted from economic interests to anti-communism, humanitarian missions and counterterrorism.
At the same time, the US has helped build international treaties and alliances, even as recent administrations have stepped back from multilateral cooperation.
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