Is America and Empire? Can we square the policies of an empire with democracy and foreign affairs?

An empire is defined as a group of nations, territories or peoples ruled by a single authority, especially an emperor or empress. There were many Empires that existed In the early centuries of the developing world. The Roman Empire that began in 27 B.C. was an historical empire that nearly lasted for five centuries. In today's world, the U.S. is being viewed as an empire. The U.S.'s empire is unlike the past …

…But just like every previous empire, there is a fall to the greatness of power. When will the power of the U.S. Empire run out and who will overcome this great dynasty, lies for us to find out in the future. 1= Michael Ignatieff, "The Burden", New York Times Magazine Jan 5th, 2003: pg1. 2= Joseph Nye, "The American Colossus", The Paradox of American Power: Why the World's Only Superpower Can't Go It Alone. Oxford: Oxford UP, 2002.