The American Vision: Modern Times © 2008

"Foreign Policy"

Introduction
In this chapter you have read about growing U.S. interests abroad. Our foreign policy describes how we relate to other countries. Since 1789 the secretary of state and the State Department have helped U.S. presidents determine foreign policy and negotiate with foreign powers. In this activity you will take a closer look at the role of the State Department and the duties of the secretary of state.

Destination Title: U.S. Department of State

Note: Clicking on the link above will launch a new browser window.
Need help using your browser for this activity? Click here for tips.

Directions
Start at the U.S. Department of State's home page.

• Scroll down the menu on the left and find "History, Education and Culture."
• Click on Student Page.
• Then click on and read Meet the Secretary of State.
• Also explore the links titled Biography and Duties of the Secretary.

1			How many secretaries of state have there been in the United States before Colin L. Powell?
2			What is the job of the Department of State?
3			What are some domestic responsibilities the secretary of state retains?
4			List the three duties of the secretary of state that you think are the most important and explain why.
5			Now that you are familiar with the duties of a secretary of state, create a help-wanted advertisement seeking someone for this position. What qualities should the person seeking this position have? What kind of experience should he or she have? Type your ad in the space below.