Rear Vision — How History Shaped Today Donald Trump and the wrecking ball: The end of the world as we know it
Jan 18, 2026
Isis Zarakol, a Professor at the University of Cambridge, highlights the historical roots and fragmentation of international orders. George Lawson from ANU discusses the evolution of modern diplomacy and international institutions. Charles Kupchan, expert on international law, critiques the liberal order's vulnerabilities and how Trump's presidency reflects deeper domestic issues. They explore the potential collapse of this order and debate whether the crisis stems from internal US politics or external pressures, driving us toward a future of uncertainty.
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Postwar Order's Purpose And Present Strain
- The liberal rules-based order was built after World War II to prevent war, support free trade and uphold democracies.
- That architecture now faces unprecedented challenges as major powers withdraw support and impose tariffs.
How Modern International Order Emerged
- Modern international law and organisations codified longstanding diplomatic and trade practices from the 18th and 19th centuries.
- Those institutions grew to solve functional problems like trade, transport and postal services, then expanded into global governance structures.
Wilson's Failed Push For The League
- Woodrow Wilson championed open diplomacy, free trade and the League of Nations after World War I.
- The U.S. Senate rejected membership three times, showing early American isolationism blocked that first attempt at multilateralism.
