Days of Decision: Turning Points in U.s. Foreign Policy

Days of Decision spans a century of American foreign policy making, from the Spanish-American War of 1898 to the attacks of September 11, 2001. Michael J. Nojeim and David P. Kilroy carefully examine twelve foreign policy landmarks, including the attack on Pearl harbor and America's entry into World War II, the launch of Sputnik and the space race with the Soviet Union, the Cuban missile crisis, the Vietnam War, the Arab oil embargo of 1973, and the fall of the Berlin Wall and collapse of the Soviet Union. Each of these milestones played a crucial role in shaping world history and led to profound changes in U.S. foreign policy.

Devoting one chapter to each turning point, Nojeim and Kilroy place each in its proper historical context, explore its political consequences-primarily the debates and divisions that arose among policy makers-and discuss the aftermath, focusing on the event's lasting influence on world affairs.

Michael J. Nojeim is program coordinator and associate professor of political science at Prairie View A&M University in Prairie View, Texas. He has published articles on U.S. foreign policy, international relations, and nonviolent resistance
David P. Kilroy is associate professor of history and chair of international studies at Nova Southeastern University in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida. He has published articles on U.S. foreign relations and U.S. military history.