International Relations

United Nations General Assembly, Hub of International Relations
Secretary General Ban Ki-moon addresses the General Assembly of the United Nations

For as long as there have been countries, there has been diplomacy; nearly 4,000 years ago the Shang dynasty of China contended with its neighbors through war and trade. In today's complex and shrinking world, international relations are as important as ever. Find information on the United Nations, other international organizations, embassies, U.S. diplomatic milestones, ongoing conflicts, and more.

The United Nations

Since the end of World War II, the United Nations has been the main stage for global diplomacy. There are only nine countries in the world not represented in the UN (all of disputed status). Learn about the organization's history, its members, and its activities in mediating global issues. 

United Nations

Principal Organs of the United Nations

UN Peacekeeping Missions

Members of the United Nations (193 nations)

Most Admired World Leaders

 

U.S. Diplomacy

Since the turn of the twentieth century, the United States has grown into one of the farthest reaching countries on Earth. The U.S. maintains active diplomatic relationships with nearly every country on earth, and is a contributing member of many global organizations. Read more about U.S. diplomacy in the past and today. 

U.S. Representatives to the United Nations

Foreign Embassies in the United States

Some Milestones in U.S. Diplomatic History

Other International Organizations

In addition to the UN, numerous international and public organizations help coordinate the flow of people and resources around the world. These groups provide medical aid, advocate for human rights, develop infrastructure, and more. Learn more about some of these valuable global groups. 

Selected International Organizations

Amnesty International

The Red Cross

 

International Crises and Conflicts

From the Delian League of ancient Greece, to the coalitions against Napoleon, to the United Nations, many of history's most important diplomatic actions have come in response to conflict and tragedy. Learn more about some of the incidents that have shaped—and continue to shape—the world's political landscape.  

ISIS Timeline

Taliban Timeline

List of Ongoing Conflicts

The 100th Anniversary of the Armenian Genocide of 1915

Israel's 60th Anniversary

Cuba Primer

 

Brewer's: World
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