This text explores the rapidly growing literature on the rise and fall of the United States. Lundestad argues that after 1945 the US has definitely been the most dominant power the world has seen. Now, however, he argues the US is in decline, its economic growth is slow and its debt is rising rapidly.

Introduction : The rise and fall of great powers -- pt. 1 Power -- America's position -- America's challengers -- War, realism, and power transitions -- Expansion -- pt. 2 The limits of power -- The impotence of omnipotence -- The long lines of history -- Visions and defeats -- Conclusion.