I know there are quite a few amatuer historians out there. Probably even a couple professional ones. Either way, a bunch of guys that probably have an opinion on the following, purely theoretical, question:
What would the world be like if the US, in one fell swoop, pulled all of its forces back into its borders and reassumed a post-depression-era isolationist policy in regards to foreign conflicts. Note, this question concerns only the US ability to project military power, not monetary power. Non-military trade would not be affected directly, rather indirectly by the sudden lack of ubiquitously-present military muscle as potential leverage. In short, what would happen if our 'policing' ceased in the space of a single day? If Carrier groups no longer ventured outside US waters for reasons other than the direct defense of our shores? Moreoever, foreign powers, including unofficial groups such as terrorist organizations are not skeptical of this new policy--EI, they believe it. Finally, all sales of weapons is halted. Financial support to certain nations may continue, but not in the form of hardware.
That being said, I want people to know that I'm not trying to passively press for any specific answer. I myself am pretty moderate in my political stance, leaning towards the conservative end. I support our military completely, if not for the policies they advocate then simply for the men and women who serve. I believe in this country and am proud to be a citizen, but I am curious what a snapshot of the world would look like without our presence.
