The Myth of Isolationism

The Cooperative State-The Chosen Instrument

The American industrialist, Harvey Firestone (1868-1932). Original Publication: People Disc - (Photo by General Photographic Agency/Getty Images)
The American industrialist, Harvey Firestone (1868-1932). Original Publication: People Disc – (Photo by General Photographic Agency/Getty Images)
Tubman, Firestone and Rusks
This picture of Secretary of State Dean Rusk, his wife, Harvey Firestone Jr. of Firestone tires and Liberian President William Tubman visually demonstrates the long lasting consequences of the relationship between the US government, its Chosen Instrument and Liberia.

As explored in Emily Rosenberg’s Chapter, the Chosen Instrument was a fundamental part of US foreign relations during the 1920s.  The Firestone Companies continuing relationship with the country of Liberia perfectly epitomizes the Chosen Instrument and its legacies.  What are some of the benefits of the government working through a private company like Firestone to pursue its foreign policy ends? What are some of the drawbacks?

Further resources:
More on Firestone and Liberia

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Isolationism and Empire Copyright © by James McKay. All Rights Reserved.

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