1937-
U.S. Representative to the United Nations (1993-1997);
Secretary of State (1997- )

European Roots.

Early Public Career.

United Nations.

Toughness and Charm.

Cabinet Officer.

Challenges.

There has always been a significant strain of isolationism in the United States. Many Americans have maintained that the country should stay out of international conflicts and problems in order to concentrate on domestic issues. After the end of World War II, however, Americans were convinced of the necessity to forego isolationist impulses to combat communism. With the fall of communist regimes in Europe, many Americans again felt comfortable resorting to isolationism, a trend reflected in Congress. Albright is an internationalist, putting her in conflict with many legislators from both major parties who want to cut back on foreign-aid commitments and end U.S. participation in peacekeeping operations in favor of greater emphasis on domestic interests. This sentiment has been...