Evaluate how foreign policy decisions are made. Examine roles of executive and legislative branches, bureaucracy, and other actors in foreign policy. **Why This Matters:** Understanding who makes foreign policy decisions helps students see how different branches and actors influence U.S. actions abroad and evaluate whether the process is democratic and effective. **Examples:** - **Executive Branch:** Students examine how the President sets foreign policy priorities, negotiates treaties (with Senate approval), and uses executive agreements. They study how the State Department, Defense Department, and intelligence agencies implement policy. They analyze how different presidents have used their authority differently—from military action to diplomatic engagement. - **Legislative Branch:** Students study how Congress declares war, approves treaties, controls funding, and provides oversight. They analyze how Congress has asserted its role, such as the War Powers Resolution limiting presidential military action. - **Bureaucracy:** Students examine how career diplomats, military leaders, and agency officials provide expertise and continuity across administrations. They study how bureaucratic culture and institutional interests shape policy implementation. - **Other Actors:** Students analyze how public opinion, interest groups (like defense contractors or human rights organizations), and media coverage influence foreign policy decisions. **Real-World Application:** When students see foreign policy decisions—whether it's a trade agreement, military action, or diplomatic initiative—they can identify which actors were involved, evaluate the decision-making process, and assess whether it was appropriate and effective.