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Virtual Conversation with Robert Zoellick on "America in the World: A History of U.S. Diplomacy and Foreign Policy"

Aug 12, 2020
11:00am to 12:00pm ET


On Wednesday, August 12, the Center for a New American Security (CNAS) hosted author Robert B. Zoellick for a discussion of his new book America in the World: A History of U.S. Diplomacy and Foreign Policy. CNAS CEO Richard Fontaine sat down with Zoellick for a moderated discussion about the book and its themes.

About the Book

Recounting the actors and events of U.S. foreign policy, Zoellick identifies five traditions that have emerged from America’s encounters with the world: the importance of North America; the special roles trading, transnational, and technological relations play in defining ties with others; changing attitudes toward alliances and ways of ordering connections among states; the need for public support, especially through Congress; and the belief that American policy should serve a larger purpose. These traditions frame a closing review of post-Cold War presidencies, which Zoellick foresees serving as guideposts for the future.

Both a sweeping work of history and an insightful guide to U.S. diplomacy past and present, America in the World serves as an informative companion and practical adviser to readers seeking to understand the strategic and immediate challenges of U.S. foreign policy during an era of transformation.

About the Author

Robert B. Zoellick has served as Deputy Secretary of State, U.S. Trade Representative, and President of the World Bank. Earlier in his career, Zoellick served as Counselor to the Secretary of the Treasury and Deputy Chief of Staff at the White House and Assistant to President George W. Bush. Zoellick is now a Senior Fellow at the Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs at Harvard University’s Kennedy School of Government.

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