U.S. Foreign Policy: Back to the Water's Edge is based on the old idea that despite domestic differences and party politics, Americans should unite "at the water's edge" and present a cohesive front to a hostile world. The fifth edition explores this theme through coverage of the Trump administration, its early policies, and how Trump's initiatives fit into the broader historical patterns of foreign policy in the United States. More compact than most of its competitors, the fifth edition packs necessary information and concepts into a lean but readable format. It contains rich historical content, providing the reader with snapshots of some of the truly classic highlights-and lowlights-of America's record in foreign affairs. Written with the student reader in mind, each chapter offers several pedagogical aids designed to reinforce and extend comprehension of the material. This text is also accompanied by a companion reader. Regional Cases in Foreign Policy, Second Edition, was written by Don Snow with the specific intention of providing material and perspectives not contained in the text. The reader contains fourteen mini-cases that can accompany classroom discussions or lectures on subjects as diverse as relations with Russia, Israel, or the Islamic State; specific questions like the border fence with Mexico; U.S.-Cuban relations; or the British withdrawal from the European Union (Brexit). Case examples are drawn from all parts of the world.

Donald M. Snow is Professor Emeritus in Political Science at The University of Alabama, where he served on the faculty for 37 years. During that period, he was also Director of International Studies within the College of Arts and Sciences, Director of Faculty Development and Services within the Office of Academic Affairs, and Chair of the Tenure and Promotions Committee within the Political Science Department. He also served as Visiting Professor at the United States Air, Army, and Naval War Colleges and the Air Command and Staff College. Within the discipline, he served as national Chair of the International Security Studies Section of the International Studies Association and of the Arms Control and International Studies Section of the American Political Science Association. He was a frequent lecturer as professional military education schools and conferences sponsored by organizations such as the Freedoms Foundation at Valley Forge. Snow has published over 60 academic books and monographs on international relations, foreign and national security topics for a variety of publishers. His most recent books include National Security, seventh edition (2020), The Middle East and American National Security (2021), and Cases in International Relations, ninth edition (2022). He resides with his wife on Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, and has a son and three grandchildren who live nearby.