How to Hide an Empire: A History of the Greater United States

How to Hide an Empire challenges the standard map-based understanding of United States territory and power. This historical work examines the full scope of U.S. territorial holdings, from island chains and military bases to overseas colonies. The book traces the development of American imperialism from the nation's earliest continental expansion through its acquisition of territories in the Caribbean and Pacific. The narrative covers the transformation of these territories and their inhabitants, along with the technological and political changes that reshaped America's approach to territorial control. The text moves through major events of the twentieth century, including World War II and the Cold War, examining how the U.S. maintained and modified its territorial reach. The story follows the shift from traditional colonialism to new forms of global presence and influence. This history reveals the gap between popular perceptions of American territory and its actual geographic scope. The work raises questions about the nature of empire, sovereignty, and how nations can exercise power beyond their commonly recognized borders.

Readers found the book eye-opening about America's territorial expansion and overseas holdings. Many noted learning new information about places like the Philippines, Guam, and Puerto Rico that wasn't covered in their history education. Liked: - Clear, engaging writing style with memorable anecdotes - Thorough research with extensive citations - Fresh perspective on familiar historical events - Balance of academic rigor and accessibility Disliked: - Some sections felt repetitive - Later chapters on modern era less cohesive than earlier history - A few readers thought it had an anti-American bias - Some wanted more detail about specific territories Ratings: Goodreads: 4.3/5 (12,000+ ratings) Amazon: 4.6/5 (1,800+ ratings) Common reader comment: "Should be required reading in American history classes" Critical comment: "Makes good points but occasionally overstates its case and cherry-picks examples" - Goodreads reviewer

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🌎 Though its overseas territories have dwindled, the U.S. still maintains about 800 military bases around the world—more than any other nation in history. 🗽 During World War II, the United States controlled more territory outside its mainland than Nazi Germany at its peak. 📚 Author Daniel Immerwahr is an associate professor at Northwestern University who specializes in studying the impact of American power beyond the mainland's borders. 🏛️ The term "Greater United States" was commonly used in the early 20th century to describe America's full territorial reach, including its colonies and possessions. 🗺️ At its height, U.S. territories included not just Hawaii and Alaska, but also the Philippines, Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa, the Panama Canal Zone, and parts of Antarctica.