Question

Government: Roughly chart the growth and development of the United States from a regional hegemon into a global superpower. In what ways does the United States work to maintain its superpower status?

Answer 1

As soon as US gained independence it started to expand by taking as many states into their territory and by taking over areas of the indigenous Indians. The industrial revolution which started from 1800, led to industrial production growing exponentially from 1830, this led to improvement in communication and transportation. The federal government focused on expansionist policies which led to growth in central government dominance and more and more goods started to be produced and distributed amongst various states.

With high technology base strengthening the military, US started to defeat several nations for various national interests. It also influenced other national politics to be pro American, which led to further growth in US GDP and trade. The world started to rely on America's leadership based on the fact it had the most money and power in terms of military. US concentrated on its internal growth when other European nations were colonizing major territories to expand. Additionally because of limited involvement in World war 2, US economy was the only nation which grew during that period, this proved beneficial in the long run. Major military advancements also played an important role for its economic growth and development.

After the collapse of bretton woods system there was increasing reliance on dollar as a world wide acceptable currency. Thus demand for USD increased which led to major appreciation in the currency. It was by far the largest nation and worked to dismantle the dominance of Soviet Union. Thus the US military spend continued to increase, because of this superpower, the US continued to intervene in several international disputes which increased its dominance.

Free market also played an important role in creating growth and development in the US economy as government intervened less. This led to incremental profits for US firms, thereby driving the GDP. US has global presence all throughout the world because of the financial help being given to several nations and its military presence in those nations. This has created a global network which has led to growth in US trade and finance. Dollar's dominance as a reliable currency and US government bonds considered safe investment, plays a major role in driving US economy and helps maintain it as a world superpower.