Critics of the Clinton administration often decried America's apparent role as "world policeman", and seemed to promote a more isolationist stance, if not as a facade. No doubt, even as the alleged world policeman of that time, the US had a dubious record, fouling up RESTORE HOPE in Somalia, ignoring the massive Rwandan genocide, and bombing Kosovo.

The Bush administration came to power in 2000 claiming they would not use American power in the way their predecessor had- that is- becoming embroiled in unnecessary military engagements abroad. Of course, 9/11 changed everything, but then the Bush administration changed it again, the takeaway being clear- foreign policy that may seem generous or claim to be (those benevolent police actions) rarely ever is.

Max Boot takes readers on an historical journey from the very first American war expeditions (which were legitimately out of self-defense) through the metamorphosis in which America sought to secure its hemisphere, secure its market share, secure foreign markets to grow, and finally, to secure the American way of life- however you may define it. Sometimes lacking polish, the book is essential to understanding how America skipped colonialism and reinvented imperialism. In between the colorful stories of incredible bravery, you can find both the value of the small war, and the detriment of its legacy.