Publication

In light of the US' foreign policy pivot to Asia, this paper examines America's role in Southeast Asia prior to the 20th century. In particular, it looks at the First Sumatran expedition of 1832, which marked the US’ arrival in the region. The author discusses 1) the events that led to this US military intervention; 2) the reaction of the press and public in the US, whose opinion was divided over the expedition; and 3) what these events tell us about the US’ self-perception as an emerging maritime power in Asia.