Evolution and Continuity in U.S. Foreign Policy between 1970-2016

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Title: Evolution and Continuity in U.S. Foreign Policy between 1970-2016

Introduction:
U.S. foreign policy is a complex and ever-evolving field that has been shaped by various factors over time. Examining the period between 1970 and 2016 allows us to analyze the changes and continuities within U.S. foreign policy. This essay aims to identify and describe one significant change and one element that remained consistent throughout this time period, providing specific historical evidence to support these observations.

Body:

Change: Shift in Cold War Dynamics
During the selected time period, a significant change in U.S. foreign policy was the shift in Cold War dynamics. In the early 1970s, the United States was engaged in a tense rivalry with the Soviet Union, characterized by intense political, economic, and military competition. However, by the late 1980s and early 1990s, the Cold War came to an end with the collapse of the Soviet Union.

Specific historical evidence supporting this change can be seen in the shift from containment to détente policies. In the 1970s, President Richard Nixon pursued a policy of détente, which aimed to ease tensions between the United States and the Soviet Union through diplomatic engagement and negotiations. This was exemplified by the Strategic Arms Limitation Talks (SALT) agreements signed in 1972 and 1979, which aimed to limit the production of nuclear weapons.

Furthermore, during the presidency of Ronald Reagan in the 1980s, U.S. foreign policy took a more assertive stance against the Soviet Union. Reagan implemented a policy of renewed military buildup, known as “Peace through Strength,” which aimed to pressure the Soviet Union into negotiations and ultimately contributed to its decline.

Continuity: Focus on National Security Interests
Despite the significant changes in Cold War dynamics, one element that remained consistent in U.S. foreign policy between 1970 and 2016 was the focus on national security interests. Throughout this time period, regardless of political shifts or changes in global dynamics, protecting and promoting national security remained a central objective of U.S. foreign policy.

Historical evidence supporting this continuity can be seen in the response to various international crises and conflicts. For example, in the 1970s, the United States continued to prioritize national security interests during events such as the Iranian Revolution in 1979 and the hostage crisis that followed. The U.S. government’s focus on securing the release of American hostages demonstrated its unwavering commitment to protecting its citizens abroad.

Similarly, in more recent years, U.S. foreign policy reflected a continued emphasis on national security interests. For instance, following the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, the United States launched the War on Terror, focusing on combating terrorism and ensuring national security both at home and abroad.

Conclusion:
The period between 1970 and 2016 witnessed significant changes in U.S. foreign policy, particularly with regard to the shift in Cold War dynamics from confrontation to cooperation. The shift from containment to détente policies during the 1970s and the subsequent collapse of the Soviet Union exemplified this change. However, despite these changes, U.S. foreign policy maintained a consistent focus on national security interests throughout this time period. The continuous prioritization of national security objectives can be observed in various international crises and conflicts that occurred over these years. By understanding these changes and continuities, we gain valuable insights into the evolution of U.S. foreign policy and its ongoing commitment to safeguarding national security interests.