Consumers' Imperium

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The narrative explores the often-overlooked aspect of American identity during the Gilded Age and Progressive Era, highlighting how the United States not only sought to expand its influence but also embraced a culture of consumption and cosmopolitanism. Kristin Hoganson argues that between the Civil War and World War I, Americans increasingly indulged in imported goods, reflecting a desire to engage with the world while simultaneously shaping their national identity. This duality challenges the traditional view of America as solely an expansionist power.