The Price of Empire: American Entrepreneurs and the Origins of America's First Pacific Empire

The United States established an empire across thousands of miles of the Pacific Ocean through the efforts of small entrepreneurs who manipulated the US government into pursuing imperial projects. The book explores their travels abroad and highlights the consequences of contemporary struggles for justice in the Pacific.

Format: Hardback
Length: 214 pages
Publication date: 04 April 2024
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

The United States, often perceived as an inverted version of the British Empire, showcased distinct characteristics. Its economy was predominantly agrarian, lacking significant investments from large corporations and territorial possessions extending beyond North America. However, a series of events preceding the Spanish-American War marked the beginning of the United States' gradual establishment of an empire spanning thousands of miles across the Pacific Ocean. Contrary to popular belief, which attributes American imperialism to the influence of powerful military and business interests, The Price of Empire presents a different perspective. It suggests that early American imperialism was primarily driven by small entrepreneurs who took risks and ventured into the Pacific region when commodity prices experienced a surge. These entrepreneurs sought to capitalize on the opportunities presented by the booming market, often pushing ahead of the American state in their pursuit of profits. However, when their profits were jeopardized, they resorted to seeking government support, urging the United States to follow them into the Pacific.

Through captivating and insightful narratives, this book delves into the experiences of American small businessmen as they traversed the globe in pursuit of imperial projects. It explores their travels, shedding light on the complexities and challenges they faced in their endeavors. Furthermore, it highlights the ongoing struggles for justice in the Pacific region, drawing connections between the past and present. By examining the role of small entrepreneurs in shaping American imperialism, The Price of Empire offers a fresh perspective on the nation's expansionist endeavors. It challenges the conventional understanding of American imperialism and sheds light on the complex interplay between economic interests, government policies, and the pursuit of power in the global arena.

Weight: 463g
Dimension: 229 x 152 x 13 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781009396363