Final answer:
The United States values the support of other countries to maintain credibility, contain Communism, and pursue foreign policy goals that include national interests and human rights. After WWII, the U.S. shifted from isolationism to active engagement in global affairs, participating in treaties and organizations to expand its influence and engage with emerging nations.
Step-by-step explanation:
The importance for the United States to have the support of people in other countries stems from a combination of historical precedent and strategic interests. Initially, the U.S. had a tradition of avoiding foreign alliances that required military commitments abroad. However, the post-World War II reality made the United States reconsider this stance, acknowledging the need for active engagement in global affairs. Support from other nations during conflicts such as the Korean War and the Vietnam War were seen as supporting American credibility and the effort to contain Communism. Moreover, as new nations emerged after decolonization, the perception of U.S. alignment with former colonial powers damaged its reputation, making it a complex struggle to win the trust of these countries.
During the Cold War, the U.S. and the Soviet Union sought to expand their influence globally, which included forming alliances through financial aid, military support, and treaties. This was done not only for ideological reasons but also for strategic ones. The involvement in international organizations and treaties is a reflection of this approach, and the decisions to participate are based on a mix of national interests, global human rights concerns, and the desire to maintain international peace and stability.
Ultimately, the support of other countries is crucial for the U.S. in order to pursue its foreign policy goals effectively, and this includes the decision whether to act as a global police force or to intervene for humanitarian reasons. Such decisions are often the subject of national debate, reflecting the diverse opinions of American citizens on the role of their country in global affairs.