"This in-depth analysis of the American imperialism debate after the Spanish-American War of 1898 elucidates how Americans understood their international role and national identity during a crucial period of their foreign relations. Transcending the immediate historical context, this book also explores why such debates remain similar and why they end up affirming a belief in American exceptionalism. Obituaries for the idea have frequently been written in response to controversial foreign policies, but exceptionalism remains vibrant and at the heart of the arguments of those who support and those who oppose these policies - whether in the Philippines, Vietnam, or Iraq"-- Provided by publisher.

Democracy and Freedom Abroad -- Democracy and Exclusion : The Issue of Race -- Roads to Utopia : Exceptionalism, Mission, and Principles -- Democracy at Home : Democratic Sanction for Foreign Policy -- What is America? -- Doomsday Scenarios -- The Right to Dissent and the Meaning of Patriotism.