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Posts tagged U.S. Foreign Policy
The Letters and Journal of Brand Whitlock

Edited by Allan Nevins

Preface: Brand Whitlock, U.S. Ambassador to Belgium, began keeping a diary during theGerman invasion. The diary spans over twenty notebooks, covering the Great War and its immediate aftermath, focusing on Belgium.The selection in the book ends with Whitlock’s resignation as Ambassador.The diary provides a frank account of the revictualing of Belgium, the suffering of theBelgian people under German occupation, European politics post-Armistice, and Whitlock’s personal growth. Whitlock had a dual view of Belgium: admiration for its cultural heritage and a critical perspective on its modern industrial state.He had limited time to acquaint himself with Belgium before the war, focusing initially on the aristocratic and artistic circles of Brussels.

Chapter I: The German Invasion Germany declared war on Russia on August 1, 1914, and invaded Luxembourg and Belgium shortly after.Belgium refused Germany’s ultimatum to allow troops to pass through, leading to the German invasion on August 4.The Belgian army,under King Albert, made a heroic stand at Liege, delaying theGerman advance.Whitlock describes the mobilization of the Belgian army, the patriotic fervor, and the impact on civilians.The King addressed Parliament, emphasizing national unity and resistance.Whitlock recounts his interactions with various diplomats and the challenges faced by Americans and Germans in Brussels.The fall of Liege and the subsequent German advance are detailed, with Whitlocknoting the bravery of the Belgian soldiers and the suffering of the civilian population.

Overall, the document provides a detailed account of the early days of World War I in Belgium, the German invasion, and the establishment of relief efforts to support theBelgian population. Whitlock’s diary offers insights into the political, social, and humanitarian challenges faced during this period.

D. Appleton-Century Company, Incorporated, 1936, 734 pages

Democracy and America's War on Terror

By Robert L. Ivie

Central Theme: The book critiques the rhetoric surrounding America'swar on terror, focusing on the intersection ofdemocracy, fear, andwar.

Historical Context: It draws parallels between the rhetoric used during the Vietnam War and the post-9/11 era.

Rhetorical Analysis: The author examines how democratic ideals are used to justify war and how rhetoric shapes public perception.

References: The book includes numerous references to previous works and lectures by the author, providing a comprehensive background on the topic.

University of Alabama Press, 2005, 251 pages

Just War Against Terror

By Jean Bethke Elshtain

Just War Theory: The book explores the concept of a just war, particularly in the context of the War on Terror, and questions whether the war against terrorism can be considered just.

Critique of Humanism: The author critiques the naivety of "humanists" who believe in endless negotiation and fail to recognize the existence of evil.

American Responsibility: The book discusses America's role and responsibility in the world, emphasizing the need to defend its principles of freedom and democracy.

Misdescription of Terrorism: The author argues against them is description of terrorism and stresses the importance of accurately describing events to maintain moral clarity.

Basic Books, Aug 4, 2004, 240 pages