3. Many historians are beginning to judge the United States in the 1990s as an “uncertain great power,” or as the “uncertain sole superpower.” Indeed, as the Cold War receded and Americans wrestled with a rapidly changing world, “uncertainty” was perhaps the best adjective to describe the American experience in the decade, despite the great economic prosperity and national security enjoyed by the nation. How would you evaluate American history during the 1989–2000 period (i.e. the “long” 1990s)? Is the American experience during this time more worthy of celebration or lament? In composing this essay, you are invited to consider any number of issues, including economics, foreign policy, technology, globalization, terrorism, social change, culture, religion and morality, etc. As always, support your argument with specific examples and evidence.
