What Next What Next | Daily News and Analysis - Emperor Trump Wants Greenland
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Jan 12, 2026 Jonathan M. Katz, a journalist and historian specializing in American expansion, dives into the complexities of U.S. imperialism and political rhetoric. He draws parallels between Trump's language and early 20th-century imperialism, exploring how it shapes modern foreign policy. Katz discusses the Monroe Doctrine's anti-colonial roots, Roosevelt's justifications for interventions, and the long-term consequences of U.S. actions, noting how they often lead to repressive regimes. He also examines the implications of claiming Greenland and the performative nature of modern political discourse.
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Greenland Drive Started As Posting
- The Greenland push began as social-media posts and media clips, including a map with 'SOON' on X.
- Mary Harris and Jonathan Katz describe the effort as driven by online signaling more than policy planning.
Modern Expansion Echoes Teddy Roosevelt
- The Trump-era push for territorial expansion echoes early 20th-century U.S. imperialism under Teddy Roosevelt.
- Jonathan M. Katz warns the administration recasts historical rhetoric (Monroe Doctrine) to justify modern interventionism.
Question Historical Justifications
- Scrutinize historical claims used to legitimize modern policy before accepting them.
- Katz implies journalists and policymakers should question appeals to the 'Monroe Doctrine' and Roosevelt corollary framings.
