Empire
166. How To Hide An Empire
Jul 8, 2024
Daniel Immerwahr, a history professor at Northwestern University and author of How to Hide an Empire, reveals the surprising role of guano, or bird poop, in shaping America's imperial ambitions. He discusses how the late 19th-century expansion marked a turning point, highlighting America's complex relationship with its territories and the armed struggles for inclusion by marginalized groups. Immerwahr also delves into the overlooked history of Native Americans and the impact of racial narratives in shaping national identity.
39:43
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Quick takeaways
- The United States' acquisition of overseas territories, driven by resources like bird guano, shaped its imperial project.
- Various proposed nicknames for the United States reflect a complex historical narrative, emphasizing its reluctance to be solely called 'America'.
Deep dives
American Empire: The Debate About the United States as an Empire
The discussion delves into whether the United States should be considered an empire. While traditionally shying away from the label, the US has a history of overseas territories, prompting the debate. The notion of empire in American history has been portrayed as pejorative. The conversation emphasizes the country's colonial history and the continuous presence of territories like Hawaii, the Philippines, Guam, and Puerto Rico.
