American Leadership
When President Obama took office in 2009, America was engaged in two costly wars, faced a global economic crisis, and had a diminished standing with our allies and around the world. The President refocused and reaffirmed American leadership in the world, recognizing that American strength derives not only from our military power but also our economic vitality, the depth and breadth of our global partnerships, and our values.

Over the course of his time in office, President Obama chose to pursue engagement over the use of force — making it a hallmark of the Administration’s promotion of America’s national security interests and the safety of the American people. Through strong and smart, resilient and relentless policies, the President leveraged every aspect of American power to ensure our homeland would remain safe and the global leader of the 21st century.