The American Economic Invasion: How the United States Took Over the World

Introduction

In their book, "The American Economic Invasion," James McMillan and Bernard Harris argue that the United States has used its economic power to dominate the world. They trace the history of American economic imperialism from the early days of the republic to the present day, and they show how the United States has used its economic power to shape the global economy in its own interests.

The Rise of American Economic Power

The United States emerged as a major economic power in the late 19th century. By the early 20th century, the United States was the world's leading industrial power, and it had a large and growing economy. The United States used its economic power to expand its influence around the world, and it became the dominant economic power in many parts of the world.

American Economic Imperialism

McMillan and Harris argue that the United States has used its economic power to dominate the world in a number of ways. They argue that the United States has used its economic power to:

• Control the global economy. The United States has used its economic power to shape the global economy in its own interests. For example, the United States has used its economic power to promote free trade and to open up markets for American goods and services.
• Exploit the resources of other countries. The United States has used its economic power to exploit the resources of other countries. For example, the United States has used its economic power to gain access to oil and other natural resources in other countries.
• Influence the policies of other countries. The United States has used its economic power to influence the policies of other countries. For example, the United States has used its economic power to pressure other countries to adopt policies that are favorable to American interests.

The Consequences of American Economic Imperialism

McMillan and Harris argue that American economic imperialism has had a number of negative consequences for the world. They argue that American economic imperialism has:

• Increased inequality. American economic imperialism has increased inequality within and between countries. For example, the United States has used its economic power to promote policies that have benefited the wealthy at the expense of the poor.
• Led to environmental degradation. American economic imperialism has led to environmental degradation around the world. For example, the United States has used its economic power to promote policies that have led to increased pollution and deforestation.
• Created conflict and instability. American economic imperialism has created conflict and instability around the world. For example, the United States has used its economic power to support dictators and other repressive regimes that have violated the human rights of their citizens.

Conclusion

McMillan and Harris conclude that the United States has used its economic power to dominate the world and that this has had a number of negative consequences for the world. They argue that it is time for the United States to change its policies and to use its economic power for the benefit of all, not just for the benefit of the wealthy and powerful.

Call to Action

If you are concerned about the negative consequences of American economic imperialism, there are a number of things you can do to help change the status quo. You can:

• Educate yourself about the issue. Learn more about American economic imperialism and its consequences. There are a number of resources available online and in libraries.
• Get involved in activism. There are a number of organizations that are working to challenge American economic imperialism. You can get involved in these organizations and help to raise awareness about the issue.
• Support alternative economic models. There are a number of alternative economic models that can be used to create a more just and sustainable global economy. You can support these models by investing in them and by buying products and services from companies that practice them.

By taking action, you can help to create a more just and sustainable global economy.