Who is the author of 'How to Hide an Empire'?

The author of 'How to Hide an Empire' is Daniel Immerwahr.

What are the main themes in 'How to Hide an Empire'?

The main themes in 'How to Hide an Empire' include History, Global Conflict, Political History, Politics and Current Affairs.

What genre is 'How to Hide an Empire'?

'How to Hide an Empire' is categorized as History, Politics and Current Affairs.

What is the main thesis of 'How to Hide an Empire'?

The main thesis of 'How to Hide an Empire' by Daniel Immerwahr is that the United States has historically maintained an empire that is often overlooked or hidden from the public consciousness. Immerwahr explores how the U.S. territories, colonies, and influences outside the continental limits are integral to understanding American history and identity. He argues that this hidden empire has shaped domestic policies, foreign relations, and social dynamics in profound ways, challenging the notion of the U.S. as merely a continental power.

How does Daniel Immerwahr explore the concept of American imperialism in the book?

In 'How to Hide an Empire,' Daniel Immerwahr explores the concept of American imperialism by examining the often-overlooked territories and islands that the United States has controlled throughout its history. He highlights the discrepancies between the continental U.S. and its possessions, arguing that American imperialism is deeply woven into the fabric of the nation's identity, despite being largely obscured in popular narratives. Immerwahr delves into the geopolitical implications, the impact on the local populations, and the ramifications of U.S. policies on these territories. By doing so, he reveals the complexities of American power and its imperial tendencies, challenging readers to rethink what constitutes the American empire and how it has influenced both domestic and international affairs.

What examples does the author provide to illustrate the impact of U.S. territories on American identity?

In 'How to Hide an Empire', Daniel Immerwahr explores various examples to illustrate how U.S. territories have shaped American identity. He discusses the Philippines, where the U.S. established a colonial presence after the Spanish-American War, highlighting how this experience influenced American attitudes towards imperialism and democracy. Immerwahr also examines the impact of Guam and Puerto Rico, showing how their status as territories reflects broader questions of citizenship and national identity. The author emphasizes how these territories have often been overlooked in discussions about what it means to be American, suggesting that they challenge the conventional narrative of a contiguous and unified nation.

In what ways does the book address the relationship between the mainland United States and its territories?

In 'How to Hide an Empire,' Daniel Immerwahr explores the complex relationship between the mainland United States and its territories by examining historical, political, and cultural dimensions. The book highlights how the U.S. acquired territories through imperialism and the implications of that expansion for both the territories and the mainland. Immerwahr discusses how the territories—such as Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines—are often marginalized in American consciousness, treated as "out of sight, out of mind." He delves into the legal and political status of these territories, illustrating how their residents have been subjected to different rights and responsibilities compared to mainland citizens. Additionally, the book uses personal stories and historical events to show how the territories have influenced American identity and policy, shaping everything from military strategy to cultural expressions. Ultimately, Immerwahr argues that understanding this relationship is crucial for comprehending the full history and present of the United States as an empire.

What themes related to colonialism and power dynamics are prominent in 'How to Hide an Empire'?

'How to Hide an Empire' by Daniel Immerwahr explores several themes related to colonialism and power dynamics. One prominent theme is the concept of 'invisibility' of American imperialism, where the US's colonial possessions, particularly in the Pacific and Caribbean, are often overlooked in historical narratives. Immerwahr argues that the US has maintained an empire without the same level of recognition or scrutiny as European colonial powers, thereby altering the understanding of American identity and its global influence. Another significant theme is the relationship between domestic and foreign policies. The book discusses how the struggles for rights and autonomy in the colonies are mirrored by those in the mainland, illustrating how colonialism shapes not only the territories involved but also the national identity and political landscape of the colonizing power. Additionally, Immerwahr addresses the racial dynamics of colonialism, highlighting how race is utilized to justify imperial ambitions and how it affects the lives of both the colonizers and the colonized. Overall, the themes of visibility in power dynamics, the interconnectedness of colonialism with national identity, and racial implications form the core of Immerwahr's analysis, challenging readers to reassess commonly held perceptions of American history and its global practices.

How to Hide an Empire

In 'How to Hide an Empire,' Daniel Immerwahr uncovers the hidden history of America's territorial expansions beyond the mainland, revealing a vast empire that often goes unnoticed. Through captivating stories and meticulous research, he examines how the U.S. governed its distant territories, challenging the reader's perception of American identity and influence. From the Philippines to Puerto Rico, Immerwahr explores the consequences of imperialism on both the colonies and the colonizers. This thought-provoking narrative forces us to reconsider the significance of these overlooked places in shaping modern America. What does it mean to be an empire, and how has the U.S. concealed its reach from the public eye?

By Daniel Immerwahr

Published: 2020

"The story of America is not just the land of the free but also the realms hidden from view—the territories and people that challenge the very notion of what it means to be an American."

History Politics and Current Affairs Political History Global Conflict

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What Readers Say About This Book

The result is a provocative and absorbing history of the United States' NEW YORK TIMES For a country that has always denied having dreams of empire, the United States owns a lot of overseas territory.

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Key Points from How to Hide an Empire

In "How to Hide an Empire," Daniel Immerwahr presents a compelling argument that the United States maintains a vast colonial empire beyond its continental borders, fundamentally challenging traditional narratives of American history and identity. Immerwahr meticulously outlines how territories such as the Philippines, Guam, and Puerto Rico, often relegated to footnotes in mainstream historical accounts, serve as critical components of the American Empire. For instance, he discusses the aftermath of the Spanish-American War, through which the U.S. acquired several overseas territories, and how these acquisitions were justified through a lens of civilizing missions and strategic benefits. This oversight regarding these territories is significant as it not only highlights the hypocrisy of a nation that professes freedom while engaging in imperialistic practices, but it also prompts readers to reconsider what it means to be an American. By redefining the parameters of empire, Immerwahr invites a broader discourse on American exceptionalism, imperialism, and cultural identity, positing that an understanding of these territories is essential to grasping the true scope of American influence and the often concealed histories of those who inhabit these lands.

About the Author

Daniel Immerwahr

Daniel Immerwahr is an American historian and author known for his insightful scholarship on U.S. foreign policy and its global impact. His notable works include "How to Hide an Empire: A History of the Greater United States," which explores the United States' colonial history and the extent of its territories beyond the mainland, and "American Empire: A Global History," where he examines America's role in shaping global history. Immerwahr's writing style is characterized by its clarity, depth of research, and ability to weave complex historical narratives into accessible prose, making significant historical themes relatable to a broad audience.

Book Details

Key information about the book.

Authors: Daniel Immerwahr
Published: January 2020
Publisher: Arrow
ISBN: 1784703915
Language: English
Pages: N/A
Genres: HistoryGlobal ConflictPolitical HistoryPolitics and Current Affairs

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“The story of America is not just the land of the free but also the realms hidden from view—the territories and people that challenge the very notion of what it means to be an American.”

How to Hide an Empire

By Daniel Immerwahr

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How to Hide an Empire

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About the Author

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Book Details

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Similar books you might like →

The Lessons of History

Voices of a People's History of the United States, 10th Anniversary Edition

Interventions

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World Order

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