American Empire in Global History

This book explores how the United States can be considered a newly-decolonized country, examining shifting meanings of the term 'empire' and reassessing the character of continental expansion. It also examines initiatives and responses in the Philippines and Cuba, placing nationalism in an international context, and examines the exercise of U.S. power in the twentieth century. The ten chapters in this edited volume bring together noted specialists on the history of international relations, the United States, and the insular empire it ruled in the twentieth century.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 244 pages
Publication date: 29 January 2024
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This captivating book delves into the intricate interplay between the predominantly national focus of studies on the United States after 1783 and the broader global trends as seen through the lens of imperial history. It makes a compelling argument that historians of European empires can greatly benefit from examining the United States in this particular context, considering it as a newly-decolonized country that acquired overseas territorial possessions in 1898 and remained a member of the Western 'imperial club' until the mid-twentieth century.

The comprehensive synthesis by A. G. Hopkins, American Empire: A Global History (2018), serves as a foundational framework for the contributions that explore and expand upon its central theme. The first three chapters offer fresh perspectives on U.S. history between the Revolution and the Civil War, proposing innovative ways to view the United States as a newly-decolonized country, delving into the evolving meanings of the term 'empire,' and reassessing the nature of continental expansion.

The second group of chapters delves into initiatives and responses in the Philippines and Cuba, reevaluating the character of nationalism in two of the United States' most significant overseas territories, both ruled directly or indirectly. These chapters place nationalism within an international context, shedding light on its complex interplay with global forces.

The third group examines the exercise of U.S. power in the twentieth century, identifying aspects of international law that have been overlooked and providing a comprehensive review of the extensive literature on the contentious themes of the Cold War and informal empire after 1945.

The ten chapters in this edited volume are brought together by renowned specialists in the fields of international relations, U.S. history, and the insular empire it ruled in the twentieth century. Originally published as articles, these chapters offer a rich and insightful exploration of the complex dynamics between the United States and the world.

In conclusion, this book provides a groundbreaking perspective on the United States' place in global history, challenging traditional narratives and highlighting the interconnectedness of nations. By integrating the study of the United States with global trends, it sheds light on the complex and multifaceted nature of imperialism and its enduring impact on the world. This book is a valuable resource for scholars, students, and anyone interested in understanding the past and shaping the future.

Weight: 453g
Dimension: 246 x 174 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032186696