ch. 23

Ch. 23 brings up the idea of an "American Empire". Throughout this course we have learned about the mighty Empires of history. In ch. 23 Strayer says "Americans generally, seeking to distinguish themselves from Europeans, have vigorously denied that they have an Empire at all". I have had this same thought as well. He also brings up the idea of american being an "Empire of production". I would also agree with this statement, since Americans interests are mostly economic. The Cold War highlights this, as in many ways it was a confrontation over opening up markets to American goods. I have mixed feelings about the "American Empire", empire has a negative connotation and but the similarities are definite. However, the "American Empire" brought many benefits to the world. For one, the presence of the U.S. military around the globe has helped reduce conflict, such as in Europe. The U.S. Navy also helps secure shipping lanes for global trade. I also found the map on page 1148 to be very interesting. It shows U.S. military/CIA interventions since 1950, but it does not show U.S. military operations in many places Pakistan or Yemen.