ABSTRACT
For the historian trying to simplify a vast subject, it is convenient to divide American diplomatic culture 1 since the eighteenth century into four main “tendencies of thought” (tendances de pensée), each connected with a certain vision of the role of the United States in the world. Two of these tendencies have had a strong influence on post-1945 history. Two others have been of more marginal importance but have exerted an influence in certain moments. First, I will briefly identify and describe the tendencies of thought. Second, I will look at what happened to them, and how they influenced US policy after the end of the Cold War. Finally, I will say a few words about the current US administration and its view of the world.
