From Dominance to Collaboration: Navigating the Transformation of Land of the Free

Capitol Hills, Washington D.C.

The United States, long heralded as the “Land of Opportunities” and the beacon of the “American Dream”, has been a model for developing countries. The United States of America has long been seen as a beacon of hope, opportunity, and freedom; a place where hard work and ambition could turn dreams into reality. John O’Sullivan coined American continent as “Land of Manifest Destiny”, the assumption that the US was morally superior and had a mission to spread republican government and the “American way of life”. For much of the 20^th century, the United States stood as undisputed global leader, wielding unparallel influence in politics, economics, culture, and technology. The post-World War II period solidified its position as superpower, and the collapse of Soviet Union left the USA as the lone hegemon.

The USA’s rise to superpower was not accidental, its foundation lies in a combination of various factors. The geographical location could have not been better, protected by Atlantic and Pacific Oceans which enabled economic growth whilst safeguarding it from any foreign threats. Over the course of history, USA has always been geographically distant from any global issues unlike the European states. Its role in World War I as well as World War II not only ensured victory for its Allies but it positioned USA as a leader in building global power while the other powerful countries turned to ashes, due to post-war repercussions. It led to the creation of Bretton Woods institutions to promote global economic stability. As a founding member of UN and a permanent member of the Security Council, USA shaped the post-war international order. Not only this, USA created NATO to spearhead its military capabilities by forming alliances, ensuring its leadership in collective security. Currently, USA has well over 750 military bases in more than 80 countries, further solidifying its dominance by having advanced weaponry, cyber capabilities, and space explorations. Interestingly, the country spends more on defense than the next 10 countries combined, reflecting its commitment to maintaining military dominance. Retrospectively, the observation by Otto Van Bismarck, former Chancellor of Germany, comes true that “God has special providence for fools, drunkards and the United States of America.” 

However, as the 21^st century unfolds, questions about USA’s waning influence have grown louder, signs of America’s diminishing influence are becoming evident. Their popular narratives have come under scrutiny, leading many to ask: Is the USA losing its edge, or transitioning into a new role in an increasingly complex global landscape?

The emerging world dominated by Washington is giving way to multipolar landscape, where emerging powers like China, European Union, Russia, and India are asserting themselves. China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), technological advancements, and rapid economic expansion have positioned it as formidable competitor to the USA. China never had a peaceful rise rather it was just a counter-narrative which lapsed all the other. Its ambition of becoming the “Zhonggou” or “Middle Kingdom” which describes itself as the civilized center of the world, surrounded by savages and barbarians, has only grown stronger since. China has overtaken USA as the world’s largest trading nation, undermining America’s economic leverage. From 5G infrastructure to artificial intelligence, China is closing the gap, and in some cases, surpassing the USA, in the field of Science, Information and Technology. Regional powerhouses like Germany, France and UK are stepping up, diversifying sources of global influence. UK’s exit from European Union or ‘BREXIT’ proved to be a big step which undermined USA’s hegemony. France & Germany, who fought deadly wars against each other from time immemorial, are now co-operating on an exponential scale, carrying the EU on their shoulders, even EU is called the “Franco-German Motor” for the same reason. Countries like India can only aspire of becoming a global hegemon though, it has no real potential of becoming one. But, with its growing economy and strategic partnerships, India is gaining a stronger voice in global affairs. Literally, India’s best outfit in geopolitical arena would always be “Vishwaguru” and not a ‘Rajan’.   

USA’s influence on the international stage has faced significant challenges. The recent US leadership has made a clown of an image, reducing its ideological might and superiority. Controversial foreign policies and domestic unrest have affected its global reputation as a model democracy. Allies in Europe and Asia have questioned America’s reliability, particularly after inconsistent policies during recent administrations. Withdrawal from key agreements like Paris Climate Accord (later reversed) and the Iran Nuclear Deal weakened America’s role in shaping global norms. Its silent objection to reforms in multi-lateral institutions like UNSC, IMF, WTO, etc. has been criticized as means to sustain its dominance. Moreover, extreme partisanship has weakened governance and ability to present a unified front internationally.

Withering Situation of USA

United States has faced several significant financial missteps throughout its history, many of which have had profound consequences for both its economy and global financial stability. The stock market crash of 1929 triggered the Great Depression, a global economic downturn. The Federal Reserve could have managed it more efficiently than it did, but its decision to raise interest rates during the early 1930s and its failure to ac quickly to stabilize the banking system worsened the situation. The 1971 Nixon Shock led to a period of inflation and contributed to the long-term volatility in global financial markets. The “Black Monday” and “Dot-Com Bubble” are some more infamous examples. The 2007-2008 Financial Crisis led to the Great Recession, with massive job losses, a housing market crash, and several disruptions in financial markets. These financial missteps highlight the complex relationships between policy decisions, financial markets, and the global economy, with USA steering and the nations band wagoning into a downward spiral.

USA’s assumed role as a global policeman is being increasingly questioned. The US became deeply involved in Vietnam in an effort to contain the spread of communism (Domino Theory). The war escalated through heavy military intervention, but the US faced unexpected resistance from both North Vietnamese and Viet Cong, resulting in a costly and ultimately unsuccessful war. It costed USA over $150 Billion (over $1 Trillion today), led to a loss of American prestige, by creating social unrest and eroding public trust. The 9/11 attacks were the gamechanger, after which the 'Policy of Containment' was abolished and a new and ruthless “Bush Doctrine” was introduced by the then President George W. Bush. His administration announced “War on Terror”, officially Global War on Terrorism, the main targets being Al-Qaeda, Taliban, and other allies. But, it unleashed a purgatory for countries like Iraq and Afghanistan. The whole act was a façade and a terrible lie to serve their own hegemonic interests. It caused more than 4.5 million deaths with more than 38 million people being displaced for the life of 3000 Americans, also resulting a malicious propaganda of Islamophobia or Political Islam. In 2011, US and NATO intervened in Libya to help oust dictator Muammar Gaddafi in wake of Arab Springs protests, which created a prolonged vacuum and instability in the name of 'humanitarian intervention'. Also, in the same year, US supported opposition groups in Syria to overthrow President Bashar al-Assad, including some factions with links to extremist groups. The US hesitated to fully intervene or establish a clear strategy, which led to prolonged conflict and devastation which continues till today.

American soft power, coined by Joseph Nye, the ability to attract and influence culture, ideals, and institutions rather than coercion or force has also taken a hit. The dominance of American media and consumerism has sometimes been seen as eroding local cultures, sparking anti-American sentiment. Companies like Facebook, while influential, have been criticized for spreading misinformation and contributing to global political instability. Issues like racism, gun violence, and income inequality have challenged the narrative of “American Dream”. Continued alliances with undemocratic governments undermine the USA’s advocacy for human rights and democracy. On the other hand, countries like South Korea promoting its culture with K-pop and K-drama, Japan with its anime and technology have won people’s heart in no time.

The perception of USA’s fading influence reflects a reality of transformation rather than outright decline. While its dominance is being challenged by rising powers and internal struggles, the USA still holds significant potential to shape the future. It may no longer dominate the world as it once dud, but this doesn’t necessarily mean decline; it could mean adaptation. By adapting to realities of a multipolar world and addressing its domestic shortcomings, the USA can continue to lead; not through dominance, but through collaboration and innovation. The dream of American leadership isn’t entirely fading, its evolving, and its future depends on how the nation chooses to navigate these transformative and critical moments in history.