Shaping a Peaceful World

The United States has fought wars throughout its history. But how has it attempted to shape a peaceful world in the wake of these conflicts? This volume explores the long US history of post-conflict diplomacy – from the early republic, through the aftermath of World War II, to recent global engagements. Through richly detailed essays, it examines how power, race, and individual agency shaped US efforts to rebuild relationships after war. Moving beyond simplistic narratives, the book reveals the complexity of forging peace and its unintended consequences. It highlights pivotal moments when alliances were born, rivalries transformed, and nongovernmental actors influenced outcomes as much as statespersons. Essential for scholars, policymakers, and readers seeking insight into how past strategies inform present decisions, this work reframes the diplomatic legacy of the United States and offers lessons for future interventions. Bold, comparative, and deeply researched, it illuminates the challenges – and possibilities – of building peace after conflict.