George, Seward was a colorful guy.

Unfortunately, Trump's windbaggery is unhelpful, if not dangerous.

The world has changed, and America must have partners rather than conquests to remain influential. Threats, bullying, and extortion result in mistrust and isolation from nations having common beneficial interests with America. Threatening to undermine the economies of Mexico and Canada with trade tariffs doesn't endear them to us (and does little for Americans).

Trump is an isolationist in the sense of withdrawing from trade, international institutions (the UN, WTO, WHO, World Climate, and possibly NATO), and complex diplomatic interests worldwide.

Many thanks. Excellent piece.