Facing West

In Facing West, Richard Drinnon explores the history of American imperialism. He digs into the roots of American expansionism, starting from the westward movement and extending to overseas territories. It's a great read if you want to understand the historical context of American foreign policy.

Drinnon doesn't shy away from discussing the role of racism in American expansion. He shows how racial prejudices were used to justify the displacement and mistreatment of indigenous peoples. This book will make you see the darker side of American history.

One of the key concepts Drinnon introduces is the 'savage war'. He explains how this idea was used to dehumanize 'the other', making it easier for Americans to accept violence and oppression. If you're interested in social psychology, you'll find this concept fascinating.

Facing West also looks into how literature played a part in shaping American attitudes towards expansion. Drinnon shows how popular narratives helped to normalize the idea of westward expansion and overseas imperialism. If you're a literature buff, you'll love this angle.

Despite being a historical analysis, Facing West has a lot of relevance to modern times. It helps us understand the roots of current issues like racial tensions and foreign policy decisions. Reading this book can give you a new perspective on the world today.