As Trump and Hegseth continue their crusade on Iran and the Middle East, American liberals clutch their pearls and insist that THIS ISN"T US! Casements are here to explain — politely and respectfually – that this very much is you, Yankee. 

We take a quick look back at the history of American imperialism from the occupations of Cuba and the Philippines in 1898, through the atrocities of Vietnam, and up to the present day. What is the true nature of America? Is it blue jeans and sitting on the porch? Or is it mass murder and regime change on an unprecedented scale? 

We then cast our wandering eye onto recent American actions in Iran and Venezuela, and have a little debate on where we think the American Empire is heading. Is Trump the final desperate outburst of an empire on its last legs, or is American tyranny here to stay? 

Books we recommended in the episode which just so happen to be written by former guests:

• Vijay Prashad - Washington Bullets 
• Vincent Bevins - The Jakarta Method

The photo is of the mass funeral for the 165 schoolgirls and staff killed by a U.S. strike on a girl's school in Minab, Iran. 

The outro music is Washington Bullets by The Clash. 

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