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State Department

Definition

The State Department, also known as the Department of State, is a federal executive department responsible for implementing the foreign policy of the United States and ensuring the welfare of U.S. citizens abroad.

Analogy

Think of the State Department like a school's guidance counselor but on a national level. Just as a guidance counselor helps students navigate their academic journey and prepare for future careers, the State Department guides our nation in its interactions with other countries and protects American interests abroad.

Related terms

Diplomacy: This is the practice of conducting negotiations between representatives of states or groups. It involves discussions designed to produce agreements or resolve disputes without resorting to war.

Foreign Policy: This refers to a government's strategy in dealing with other nations. Like how you might plan your approach to group projects or team sports, foreign policy outlines how a country will interact with others on an international stage.

Embassy: An embassy is like a mini-version of one country located within another country. It's where diplomats (the "guidance counselors" for our analogy) work and sometimes live while representing their home country abroad.