America's Foreign Policy Practice Exam 2026 - Free Practice Questions and Study Guide

Fukuyama's concept of the "end of history," articulated in his influential 1989 essay, refers to the idea that the spread of liberal democracy and capitalism marks the endpoint of mankind's ideological evolution. He argued that, after the Cold War, there would no longer be a serious alternative to liberal democracy as a governing political form. This does not imply an end to historical events or conflicts but suggests that the underlying ideological struggles have largely been resolved, with liberal democracy emerging as the dominant, most effective system for organizing societies.

This notion emphasizes capitalism's role in promoting individual rights and political freedoms, positioning it as the ultimate political system that aligns with human progress. Fukuyama's thesis posits that the ideological battles that characterized the 20th century—between fascism, communism, and liberal democracy—have concluded in favor of the latter.

The other options do not align with Fukuyama's thesis as closely. A shift away from democratic governance contradicts his argument, as does the idea of a new military strategy or the conclusion of all global conflicts. Fukuyama's focus was on ideological developments rather than tactical military concerns or a cessation of conflict itself.