The proposed purchase of Greenland by the Trump Administration seems far-fetched if one is unfamiliar with the history of the United States and its growth as a nation. The temerity of Trump's vision is in the spirit of many of his presidential predecessors, as well as of statesmen and intrepid colonists. Initial attempts to claim Canada began in the early years of the American Revolution, and despite the successful capture of Montreal, momentum diminished after progress stalled in Quebec City. The desire for Canada continued well into the 1800s. The desire to spread slavery southward figured into early endeavors to seize Cuba, but most efforts were futile if not half-hearted, especially as the Abolitionist movement grew. The Manifest Destiny that encouraged Americans' intrepid spirit to lay claim to foreign lands wasn't always met with open arms; it often met with opposing armies.

The history of American imperialism is chronicled in this illuminating book, which explores more than two centuries of attempts at colonialism. Each scenario is deftly highlighted by the key people involved in the act of conquest, along with the possibility of success, and the ventures undertaken by politicians or foolhardy pioneers. The frustrating yet often humorous outcomes frequently speak for themselves when bids to buy territory fall apart due to diplomatic failure, or when the band of filibusters who try to claim land disregards the natives willing to fight for their own territory. This is an important record of United States foreign policy in which the bold American spirit is humbled by those it seeks to colonize. This is a well-written and unflinching account of US and world history.

RECOMMENDED by the US Review

Return to USR Home