Hit-and-Run Belligerence

This book delves into the history of the United States' expansion beyond its contiguous territories, including its governance of islands, atolls, and archipelagos. It explores how the U.S. transitioned from colonialism to a new form of influence leveraging technology, culture, and military presence. The book covers topics such as the U.S. occupation of the Philippines, the role of English as a global language, and the impact of U.S. bases worldwide. Immerwahr argues that American empire-building began early and continued through various means, often without significant territorial expansion.

This book by John Ghazvinian explores the intricate and evolving relationship between the United States and Iran over three centuries. It delves into the periods of mutual fascination, early interactions, close strategic ties, and the eventual descent into mutual hatred. Drawing on extensive archival research in both the U.S. and Iran, Ghazvinian identifies key events, such as the 1953 U.S. -British overthrow of the Iranian prime minister and the 1979 hostage crisis, as pivotal moments in the deterioration of relations. The book aims to show that the current adversarial relationship was not inevitable and highlights the shared histories and mutual admirations that once existed between the two nations.

In 'All the Shah's Men,' Stephen Kinzer provides a detailed and engaging narrative of the CIA's Operation Ajax, the covert operation that deposed Iranian Prime Minister Mohammad Mossadegh in 1953. The book explores the historical context, including the nationalization of the Anglo-Iranian Oil Company by Mossadegh, the British and American interests involved, and the role of key figures such as Kermit Roosevelt and the Dulles brothers. Kinzer argues that this coup had significant and unintended consequences, including the rise of Muslim fundamentalism, anti-American sentiment in the Middle East, and ultimately, the Islamic Revolution of 1979. The book is a critical examination of American foreign policy and its impact on global events, drawing connections between the 1953 coup and contemporary issues in the Middle East.