Learn the Basics of U.S. Foreign Policy History, Creation, and Implementation
By Steve Jones, About.com Guide
Who Makes U.S. Foreign Policy?
The Constitution of the United States doesn't say anything about "foreign policy," but it does make clear who is in charge of America's official relationship with the rest of the world. Here is a very basic primer on the structure of U.S. foreign policy making.
The President
The President of the United States has a number of advisers who are key to making U.S. foreign policy. These include the Secretary of State, other cabinet members, the National Security Council, and more.
The U.S. State Department
The U.S. State Department is the lead government agency for developing and implementing foreign policy. In most countries, this agency would be know as the "foreign ministry."
The United States Congress
Congress controls the purse strings, so they have a lot of influence over all kinds of federal issues - including foreign policy. Most important is the oversight role played by the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and the House International Relations Committee.
- Congress and U.S. Foreign Policy
- Building a Moderate Foreign Policy
- Senate Foreign Relations Committee
- House Committee on Foreign Affairs
US Citizens
Can private citizens have an impact on U.S. foreign policy? Of course. The ballot box is one direct route, but there are other ways to make your voice heard.
Historical Foreign Policy Measures
Obviously, the United States has more than 235 years of foreign policy measures. Here is an ongoing look at historical US policies.