The United States of America: The New Roman Empire

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Recommended: Evidence of American expansionism in the late nineteenth century

Picture an influential government overflowing with appealing morals, vast acquired land, and a strong military. Does the Roman Empire or perhaps the United States come to mind? This, in fact, describes both civilizations. The striking parallels between the United States and Rome are alarming; particularly the underlying motives of war, the treatment of soldiers post war, and the materialistic values of both societies. With that being said, it is questioned if the United States is on a path towards self-destruction much like the collapse of the Roman Empire around 500 C.E. Although the United States is not categorized as an empire, there is evidence that has shown it has imperialized external countries. Informally, the United States is an empire which attempts to control and revolutionize other countries due to selfish motivations. The United States fully believed in the idea of manifest destiny, where American settlers thought they were destined to expand what land they owned, and perhaps that same belief still holds true. By 1890, there was not any more land to possess and as a result, the United States began waging the Spanish-American War in 1898 to obtain more territory. The battles' intentions seem to reflect those which involved the Roman Empire "which spread its laws, its culture, and its peace" in hopes of becoming powerful among the world (Reilly 189). Just like the United States today, the Roman Empire imperialized countries and lands to accommodate the needs of the empire. Even now, the United States maintains countless military bases around the world to ensure and exercise global authority. Although the Roman Empire grew, it was never satisfied with what it obtained, just as the United States does today (2-13 Bacevich). Presently, the United States places a high value on its military power and often boasts of its strength in the news. Not only does

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