This book sheds light on American exceptionalismthe belief that the United States is unique and superior and is destined to lead the world. It argues that this idea is not exclusive to the United States, as many other nations, including China, India, France, and Germany, have also claimed uniqueness based on their history, culture, or power. Such claims often distort reality, ignore comparisons, and justify questionable actions.

The book examines the roots of American exceptionalism in doctrines such as Manifest Destiny and the Doctrine of Discovery. It traces the impact of these doctrines on Native Americans, slavery, and U.S. identity. The book then follows America's rise from isolationism to global dominance, examining its triumphs and contradictions as well as the challenges of the 21st century.

By providing a critical, historical, and global perspective on this powerful ideaincluding its origins, evolution, and limitsthis book will appeal to scholars, students, and anyone interested in U.S. history, global politics, and the myths that shape nations.

Examines the myths of American exceptionalism through a critical, historical, and global lens Presents how doctrines like Manifest Destiny shaped U.S. identity, power, and foreign policy Challenges assumptions of national superiority with nuanced comparisons across cultures and eras

Autorentext

Deepak Tripathi, Ph.D., is a Fellow of the Royal Historical Society and the Royal Asiatic Society of Great Britain and Ireland. A British historian and former journalist, Tripathi worked for the BBC for 23 years as a foreign correspondent, commentator, and editor. As the BBC's Afghanistan correspondent, he established the corporation's bureau in Kabul in the early 1990s. He has also reported from Syria, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and India. Prior to joining the BBC in London, Tripathi worked at the Voice of America in Washington, DC.

Klappentext

This book sheds light on American exceptionalism—the belief that the United States is unique and superior and is destined to lead the world. It argues that this idea is not exclusive to the United States, as many other nations, including China, India, France, and Germany, have also claimed uniqueness based on their history, culture, or power. Such claims often distort reality, ignore comparisons, and justify questionable actions. The book examines the roots of American exceptionalism in doctrines such as Manifest Destiny and the Doctrine of Discovery. It traces the impact of these doctrines on Native Americans, slavery, and U.S. identity. The book then follows America’s rise from isolationism to global dominance, examining its triumphs and contradictions as well as the challenges of the 21st century. By providing a critical, historical, and global perspective on this powerful idea—including its origins, evolution, and limits—this book will appeal to scholars, students, and anyone interested in U.S. history, global politics, and the myths that shape nations.

Inhalt

Chapter 1. Evolution of American Exceptionalism.- Chapter 2. Icons of American Exceptionalism.- Chapter 3. Slavery and Civil War.- Chapter 4. Twentieth Century Exceptionalism.- Chapter 5. Post-Soviet American Exceptionalism.- Chapter 6. Exceptionalism in Trump Era.- Chapter 7. Conclusion.