Is The United States An Empire History Essay

The Roman Empire is one of the earliest and most famous empires recognized by people today. The goal of the Roman Empire was to expand their population and territory. The ruler of the Roman Empire was the first to construct and manage an army. The warriors invaded other less powerful countries, abducted civilians and transported them to Rome to increase their population. “At its highest peak, this empire stretched from Europe to Jerusalem to North Africa, and controlled a very large percent of the world’s trade” (Saint Leo School, 1). This shows how over time the Roman Empire increased its borders by taking over less powerful countries. The Belgian Empire took a different approach to running their empire. Residents of Belgian who did not seek to help their country were severely tortured. The British Empire is a great example of a territorial empire which started out as a small island to the west of the main land of Europe. At the climax of their reign, the British Empire owned land in all seven continents. The Spanish Empire attained their empire with many fights. “The priority of this empire was to steal as much gold and silver as they could from countries in the Americas”(Rathbone, 1). Even though stealing wealth from other countries was the main reasons for migrating to the Americas, the Spanish also forced natives to change their religion to Christianity. Throughout history there have been rises and falls of strong nations, which became corrupt with the power they had. The United States has now been “the strongest nation” in the world for the past sixty-eight years, but that does not in any way imply that this country will be the next empire. The United States is built on a democracy; this is why natives and immigrants who live in the United States love living here.

As citizens of the United States, residents have the privilege of freedom of speech, which they exercise regularly. The citizens of the United States of America are fortunate that their fore fathers fought so hard for those rights centuries ago, while they continue to be just as valuable today. “The liberty and justice that Americans know today was created through The Constitution” (Barr,1). This document continues to highlight what the United States of America strives to enforce on a daily basis. It serves as the framework to guide and support all. As well as, protects the interests of its citizens. The United States government demands respect for these laws which were created for the people, by the people. Those who disrespect the laws must understand that there are consequences to these actions, and they will be given a fair trial by their peers; regardless of their status. It would be unheard for an imperialistic nation to offer a fair trial, to anyone. Why, because the common people do not have a voice over their Emperor.

The United States is considered the land of opportunities to others living in less fortunate countries. “Those who wish to live in America want to live in a democracy, not in an Imperialist nation; which sadly dictates their lives” (Poremba,1). The United States is a democratic nation, without any interest in ever dominating others. Granted it would be easy for the United States to be selfish and bully other nations. Certainly, if that was the intent of the nation, it would have been implemented several decades ago; even though the United States has never been known as procrastinators. If the United States was an empire, the country would not have the mindset that they have today about conquering other countries. The United States would use its strong powers to take over other countries, instead of helping them; as the United States does today.

There are still many countries which operate under dictatorships and monarchies; these people just want to be free. “While other people just want to leave their poverty stricken countries” (Poremba,1). This is why approximately 1,400 Mexicans try to illegally cross their own borders each day; they are tired of living in poverty. “Some immigrants just want to come to the United States, so they can freely practice their own religion” (Poremba,1). In past empires, as well as modern day ones, citizens did not or do not have the chance to practice the religion they chose to believe in, instead they have other beliefs forced upon them. This is definitely not a problem in the United States, since all citizens have the freedom to practice any religion they choose.

“Lands around the world cry out for the sort of enlightened foreign administration” (Rathbone, 1). Today, the United States assists disease stricken countries, by sending medication and supplies to assist those who are in need. “The United States spends on average $25 billion every year to support those who cannot help themselves”(Shah,5). That is more than double the amount of money any other country in the world sends for foreign aid. “Under the current economic system, more people have stepped from poverty to prosperity than ever before in the history of the world” (Schroeder,1). This success has been achieved by other countries, since the United States has been so generous about lending money to them. Giving money to other countries in the form of foreign aid is not the only way the United States has helped other countries advance; we have also supported ideas throughout other countries. “America has strongly supported European integration which has brought peace, stability, democracy, and prosperity to Europe for the first time in its history” (Schroeder,1). Without the United States’ support on this issue, Europe may not be the stable continent it is today. The United States has not only helped Europe succeed, but also countries in Asia. Due to the teachings of the United States, Japan which was in a militaristic state is now a democracy. Without the assistances of the United States these nations, as well as, many more nations would probably fall victim to Imperialism, with Emperors who control their every move. “America has conquered, rebuilt, and set free” (Schroeder,1). It would be so easy for the United States to take over those countries when they were weak, which is what empires do, but instead they were helped financially and taught new ideologies; which enabled them to get back onto their feet and begin again.

Another reason why immigrants want to immigrate to the United States is because our government believes in the importance of a strong education to the support the future. Everyone has the opportunity and is entitled to a proper education, so that they can earn a living, and support their families. Nations which support Imperialism certainly aren’t concerned about the well being of their own citizens, just in their own wealth and well being to support their families; which will help continue their dynasty in the decades to come. The United States also believes in the need for the advancements in medicine and technology; to support our future.

Yes, the United States is a very strong and powerful country. Clearly the United States is not a modern-day empire because of its strength; most decisions are made wisely with taking into consideration the needs and rights of all. The United States believes in freedom of speech and helping others, while Empires stand for control of their people. It is the United States’ ability along with their strong will and work ethic that has set them apart from many other nations.

Immigrants that choose to leave their homeland are in search of the American dream and to be free, while living in the United States.

Stealing and converting

No want for land

http://www.globalissues.org/article/35/us-and-foreign-aid-assistance green quote