The World Is Our Stage: The Global Rhetorical Presidency and the Cold War

The book "The World is Our Stage" explores how presidential appearances overseas broadcast American superiority during the Cold War, examining five foundational moments in the development of the "global rhetorical presidency."

Format: Hardback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 08 February 2023
Publisher: The University of Chicago Press

A captivating exploration of the United States' presidential rhetoric during the Cold War era, "The World is Our Stage" delves into the profound impact of presidential travels abroad on global perceptions and international relations. Authored by Allison M. Prasch, this insightful book examines five pivotal moments in the evolution of the "global rhetorical presidency," highlighting how the physical presence of US presidents defined the boundaries of the "Free World" and elevated the United States as the central actor in Cold War geopolitics.

In the chapter titled "Truman at Potsdam," Prasch delves into the aftermath of World War II and the pivotal role played by President Harry S. Truman in shaping the post-war world. Through his visit to Potsdam, Truman sought to establish a new order based on the principles of democracy and freedom, emphasizing the importance of international cooperation and the need to confront the threat of communism. Prasch highlights how Truman's speech at Potsdam, which emphasized the United States' commitment to rebuilding Europe and promoting global peace, resonated with audiences around the world and helped to solidify the United States' position as a global leader.

The next chapter, "Eisenhower's 'Goodwill Tours,'" explores the use of presidential travels as a means of projecting American superiority and promoting goodwill. President Dwight D. Eisenhower embarked on several tours throughout the world, visiting countries in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, with the aim of fostering friendship and understanding between the United States and its allies. Prasch examines how Eisenhower's "Goodwill Tours" helped to strengthen the bonds of the NATO alliance and promote a sense of unity among nations.

In the chapter titled "Kennedy in West Berlin," Prasch examines the symbolic significance of President John F. Kennedy's visit to West Berlin in 1963. Kennedy's speech, known as the "Ich bin ein Berliner" speech, marked a moment of political triumph and defiance against the Soviet Union. Prasch explores how Kennedy's physical presence in West Berlin symbolized the United States' commitment to freedom and democracy and helped to rally support for the anti-communist cause.

The chapter titled "Nixon in the People's Republic of China" examines President Richard M. Nixon's historic visit to the People's Republic of China in 1972. Nixon's visit was a significant milestone in the thawing of relations between the United States and China, and Prasch highlights how Nixon's physical presence in China helped to break down barriers and promote mutual understanding.

The final chapter, "Reagan in Normandy," examines the symbolic significance of President Ronald Reagan's visit to Normandy in 1984, commemorating the D-Day landings and honoring the sacrifices made by Allied soldiers during World War II. Prasch explores how Reagan's speech at Normandy, which emphasized the importance of freedom and democracy, helped to inspire a renewed sense of national pride and unity in the United States.

Through her meticulous archival research and insightful analysis, Allison M. Prasch demonstrates how presidential appearances overseas played a crucial role in shaping the Cold War narrative and projecting American superiority. "The World is Our Stage" offers a valuable perspective on the complex dynamics of international relations during the Cold War era and sheds light on the enduring power of presidential rhetoric in shaping global perceptions.

Dimension: 229 x 152 x 25 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780226823652