The United States adhered to a policy of isolationism during its early history. However, in the twentieth century the country gradually changed its views on foreign policy. It shifted from a nation that was reluctant to get involved in world affairs to one that has played a key role in the international community. America was instrumental in the formation of the United Nations because it realized the importance of establishing strong peacekeeping alliances with foreign countries. This paper will examine the role our nation has played in the international community through the United Nations.

To fully grasp America's role in world affairs, it is important to understand why the nation was isolationist. The term, isolationism, means that a country is reluctant to take an active role in the international community. During the 1920's and 1930's America was in isolation. This retreat from an active world policy was a...