The literature on American Empire is pretty extensive, and it remains a popular topic among scholars, journalists, and readers. Bulmer-Thomas offers his own, well-written history of American imperialism, and its historical context and roots. In addition, the author takes a look at what might be to come, and offers a declinist interpretation of American imperialism's future.

An interesting book, and a worthy addition to the genre.

EMPIRE IN RETREAT by Victor Bulmer-Thomas (March 27; Yale University Press) is subtitled, "The past, present and future of the Unites States." Bulmer-Thomas provides a thorough review of "empire," American imperialism, and potential changes in world leadership/standing. One aspect I particularly liked was his discussion of soft, hard and smart power. This is clearly a more scholarly approach, but those are concepts that I found students to be very curious about this year.

Victor Bulmer-Thomas compellingly redefines the notion of American imperialism, while explaining that the current transitional period in U.S. world standing can be both painful and liberating for its citizens.