ASSIGNMENT NO 03

Introduction to International relations

Members
Vaneeza Ahmed 02-133202-003
Munaem Hashmi 02-133202-061

Class: Bee-8A
 Struggle of the USA to Maintain Peace Against
Racism and Imperialism
Introduction
The United States, a nation built on ideals of liberty and equality, has grappled with the persistent issues
of racism and imperialism throughout its history. These deeply entrenched forces have challenged the
very notion of peace within its borders and continue to shape the nation's domestic and foreign policies.
This assignment delves into the historical context of these issues, examines contemporary challenges, and
explores ongoing efforts to build a more just and peaceful society.

1. Historical Context of Racism in the USA

A. Slavery and Civil War (1619-1865)

 The arrival of the first enslaved Africans in 1619 marked the beginning of a brutal system
that would define American society for centuries. Millions of Africans were forced into
chattel slavery, stripped of their freedom and subjected to unimaginable cruelty.
 The Civil War (1861-1865) erupted primarily over the issue of slavery. While the war
ultimately led to emancipation, it did not dismantle the underlying structures of racism that
continued to plague the nation.

B. Reconstruction and Jim Crow Era (1865-1965)

 The Reconstruction era aimed to rebuild the South and integrate Black Americans into
society. However, these efforts were largely unsuccessful due to political maneuvering and
violence from white supremacist groups.
  The Jim Crow era (late 19th century to mid-20th century) witnessed the implementation of
discriminatory laws and practices known as Jim Crow laws. These laws enforced racial
segregation in public spaces, education, and employment, solidifying a system of racial
oppression.

C. Civil Rights Movement (1950s-1960s)

 A pivotal period in American history, the Civil Rights Movement arose to challenge Jim Crow and
fight for racial equality. Led by iconic figures like Martin Luther King Jr., the movement employed
peaceful protests, boycotts, and marches to raise awareness and pressure for change.
 Landmark victories like the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965 outlawed
segregation and discrimination, but the struggle for racial justice continues to this day.

2. Historical Context of Imperialism in the USA (1800s-Present)

A. Manifest Destiny and Expansionism (1800s)

 The 19th century saw the rise of Manifest Destiny, a belief that the United States was destined to
expand westward across the continent. This expansion often came at the expense of Native
American populations, who were forcibly displaced from their lands through wars and broken
treaties.
 The Mexican-American War (1846-1848) resulted in the United States acquiring vast territories
in the Southwest, further solidifying its imperial ambitions.

B. Overseas Expansion (Late 19th-Early 20th Century)

 The Spanish-American War (1898) marked the emergence of the United States as a global power.
The war led to the annexation of Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines, ushering in an era of
American colonialism.
 The Monroe Doctrine (1823) and its corollary by Theodore Roosevelt (1904) asserted American
dominance in the Western Hemisphere, justifying numerous interventions in Latin America and the
Caribbean to protect US interests.

C. Cold War Era and Beyond (1947-Present)

 During the Cold War, the United States adopted a containment policy to prevent the spread of
communism. This often involved supporting authoritarian regimes or intervening in proxy wars,
sometimes with devastating consequences for local populations.
 Post-9/11, the US launched the War on Terror, leading to prolonged conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan.
These interventions, along with continued military presence around the world, raise questions about
the nature of American imperialism in the 21st century.

3. Contemporary Struggles Against Racism
A. Systemic Racism

Despite legal advancements, systemic racism continues to permeate American society.

 Economic Inequality: Black Americans face significant disparities in income, wealth accumulation,
and access to quality education and employment opportunities.
 Criminal Justice System: Mass incarceration and racial profiling disproportionately affect Black
communities. Issues like police brutality continue to spark outrage and calls for reform.

B. Black Lives Matter Movement

 The Black Lives Matter movement emerged in response to police killings of unarmed Black
individuals. It seeks to dismantle systemic racism and achieve racial justice through public protests,
community organizing, and legislative advocacy.
 While BLM has raised public awareness and influenced policy discussions, the fight for racial
equality is far from over. Police brutality and institutional bias remain significant challenges.
4. Contemporary Struggles Against Imperialism
A. Military Interventions
 This presence, justified by national security concerns, often destabilizes regions and fuels anti-
American sentiment. The human cost of these interventions, both for the US and the intervened
nations, raises questions about their effectiveness.

B. Economic Policies

The US exerts significant economic influence globally through trade agreements, foreign aid, and the
dominance of the US dollar. While these policies benefit the US economy, critics argue they can:
 Disadvantage developing nations by creating unfair trade practices.
 Perpetuate economic dependence on the US.
 Prioritize corporate interests over human rights and environmental concerns.

5. Efforts to Maintain Peace

A. Policy Reforms

Addressing systemic racism requires a multi-pronged approach. Legislative efforts might include:

 Criminal justice reform to address racial bias in policing and sentencing.

 Economic initiatives to promote wealth creation and equal opportunity in Black communities.
 Educational programs to foster racial understanding and dismantle prejudice.

In the realm of foreign policy, promoting peace requires a shift towards:

 Diplomacy and international cooperation to resolve conflicts peacefully.

 Respect for international law and the sovereignty of other nations.
 Focusing on building partnerships and addressing root causes of conflict, such as poverty and
inequality.

B. Grassroots Movements

Local and national organizations play a crucial role in advocating for social and economic justice. These
groups work to:

 Raise awareness about racial and economic disparities.

 Organize protests and campaigns to push for policy changes.

Public education campaigns are essential for fostering a more equitable and peaceful society. They aim to:

Build community power and empower marginalized voices.

 Promote tolerance and understanding of diverse cultures and backgrounds.
 Challenge racist stereotypes and narratives.
 Inspire individuals to take action and advocate for change.


Conclusion
The struggle for peace within the US necessitates continuous efforts to dismantle racism and imperialism.
While significant progress has been made, the legacies of the past and contemporary challenges demand
ongoing vigilance and action. By fostering a more inclusive society, promoting diplomacy abroad, and
addressing the root causes of injustice, the US can strive towards a more just and peaceful future for all its
citizens.

References
1. Alexander, M. (2010). The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration in the Age of Colorblindness. New
Press.
2. Zinn, H. (2003). A People’s History of the United States. Harper Perennial.

3. Coates, T. (2015). Between the World and Me. Spiegel & Grau.

4. West, C. (1993). Race Matters. Beacon Press.

5. Johnson, C. (2000). Blowback: The Costs and Consequences of American Empire. Holt Paperbacks