The Senate Foreign Relations Committee first met 1816 as one of the original ten standing committees of the Senate. Throughout its history, the committee played a key role in developing and influencing United States foreign policy, at different times supporting and opposing the policies of presidents and secretaries of state.
The committee considers and debates important treaties and legislation, ranging from the purchase of Alaska in 1867 to the establishment of the United Nations in 1945. It also holds jurisdiction over all diplomatic nominations. Through these powers, the committee helps shape foreign policy of broad significance, in matters of war and peace and international relations.
