This is a fascinating history of the United States told through its foreign policy. Stolen is an excellent lecturer, although he does appear to be reading from a teleprompter and has some awkward pauses in the middle of words--but what he is saying is so well thought out, it doesn't matter. He is especially good at discussing the different possible approaches to foreign policy and why the actors (usually the President, but also including other top officials at time) chose to do what he did. His analysis of the successes and failures of each President are fascinating. He also pulls out great quotes to illuminate their thinking. Unsung heroes creep up, such as General Matthew Ridgeway who advised against bailing the French out in Indochina. Stoler also has some pointed praise for the first President Bush for getting out of Iraq. This course was produced in 2008, and though he says it is too early to judge current events, Professor Stoler is clearly disturbed by the second invasion of Iraq. Overall, he is a balanced and insightful judge, however. For example, he presents a forceful case for the success of Nixon and Kissinger's realpolitik in dealing with China and the Soviet Union, leading to diplomatic relations with China and significant arms control treaties with the USSR--but the just as forcefully condemns the negative effects of Nixon's policies. This course does a great job showing the increasing scope of executive power used by Presidents to implement their policies without the consent of Congress, for example. Overall, a true 5-star course and one that is still relevant when I write this review in 2016. ( )