In October 2023, Elliott School professorial lecturer Thomas R. Parker published his latest book: American President’s in Diplomacy and War: Statecraft, Foreign Policy, and Leadership. An analysis of presidential statecraft, Parker’s monograph offers critical lessons for the use of U.S. national power overseas. Following the book’s release, Parker reflected on his subject, the surprises he discovered along the way, and what his narrative can teach policymakers:
“ I chose to write about statecraft and its relation to the major American presidents because I am interested in how leaders deal with complex issues in an atmosphere of uncertainty and great stress. They did not have a lot of margin for error in many cases. Hemingway said, I believe, that courage was grace under pressure. I wanted to see if they met that standard.
One thing I found surprising was that several of these leaders, particularly Washington and Theodore Roosevelt, had to overcome an initial inclination towards willfulness. But they did outgrow this negative trait. Also, the importance of Civil War's diplomacy is underappreciated. Fortunately, Lincoln was a quick learner.
Examine all the options thoroughly and dispassionately because, as Edmund Burke said: “Prudence is the God of This Lower World.” Don’t be overwhelmed by the political atmosphere of the moment. But once, you have decided upon a policy, proceed with implacability.”
For more on the book, check out the University of Notre Dame Press interview with Parker, read an excerpt online, or purchase it today on the publisher’s website.