Introduction
For over a century and a half, the United States has positioned itself as the dominant power in the Western Hemisphere, projecting the image of a benevolent neighbor and ally to nations in Central America, South America, and the Caribbean. Yet, behind this friendly façade lies a troubling history of covert and overt actions that have actively undermined the stability, sovereignty, and development of these nations.
150 Years of Missed Opportunities
The Western Hemisphere offers abundant resources, strategic geographic positions, and vibrant cultures that could have formed the foundation of robust partnerships. However, instead of aiding its neighbors in achieving sustainable development, the United States has pursued policies that prioritize dominance over collaboration.
The Monroe Doctrine, introduced in 1823, is a glaring example. Cloaked in the language of protecting the Americas from European interference, the doctrine essentially positioned Latin America and the Caribbean as a U.S. sphere of influence. Sovereign nations were treated as extensions of U.S. territory, leaving little room for self-determination.
Over time, this policy evolved into direct interference:
- Honduras: In the early 20th century, the term “banana republic” emerged due to U.S. corporations like United Fruit Company controlling the nation’s economy with the support of U.S. military interventions to protect corporate interests.
- Guatemala: In 1954, a CIA-led coup ousted democratically elected President Jacobo Árbenz after he initiated land reforms that threatened U.S. business interests. This plunged the country into decades of civil war and suffering.
- Chile: In 1973, the U.S. backed a coup against democratically elected socialist leader Salvador Allende, installing the brutal dictatorship of Augusto Pinochet, which was marked by human rights abuses and economic hardships.
- Haiti: Despite its proximity, Haiti has been a consistent target of U.S. interference, from the 1915-1934 occupation to more recent involvement in political and economic crises.
These are just a few examples of how U.S. policies have destabilized nations instead of fostering development and self-reliance.
Why China is Winning the Global Influence Game
While the U.S. continues to sow discord and maintain dominance through coercion and intervention, China is rewriting the playbook. Through its Belt and Road Initiative, China has established itself as a global superpower by providing infrastructure, loans, and development projects to nations worldwide, including those in Latin America and the Caribbean.
For example:
- Argentina and Brazil: Both nations have benefitted from Chinese investment in renewable energy and infrastructure, strengthening their economies and creating jobs.
- Cuba and Venezuela: China has provided essential economic lifelines, including loans and trade partnerships, helping these nations circumvent economic isolation imposed by U.S. sanctions.
- The Caribbean: China has invested heavily in infrastructure projects such as roads, ports, and tourism facilities, empowering smaller nations to enhance their economic independence.
Unlike the U.S., which often imposes conditions on aid that serve its own strategic interests, China operates under a principle of “non-interference.” Whether or not one agrees with China’s motives, the results are clear: nations are gravitating toward a model of partnership that respects their sovereignty while fostering development.
Counterproductive U.S. Behavior
The U.S. approach has not only undermined the prosperity of its neighbors but has also backfired on its own global standing. As nations grow weary of interference, they are turning to alternative partners who prioritize mutual benefit over domination. This shift is accelerating China’s rise as a global superpower while eroding the U.S.’s influence.
Instead of perpetuating outdated doctrines and destructive policies, the United States could have chosen a different path:
- Strengthening economic ties through fair trade agreements that empower both parties.
- Providing infrastructure aid to modernize economies in the hemisphere.
- Supporting democratic institutions without undermining them for short-term gain.
The Path Forward
The Western Hemisphere remains one of the most underdeveloped regions globally, not because of a lack of potential but due to sustained interference and exploitation. The U.S. has had ample time—150 years and counting—to truly strengthen ties and uplift its neighbors. It chose otherwise.
The question now is whether the United States will continue to cling to these destructive patterns or adapt to the changing geopolitical landscape. As China demonstrates, the world no longer tolerates the colonial mindset. Nations demand partnerships, not paternalism; respect, not exploitation.
For the United States to remain relevant on the global stage, it must recognize that building bridges is far more powerful than burning them. A prosperous Western Hemisphere benefits everyone, including the U.S., but this prosperity cannot be achieved through coercion and control. It requires genuine investment, collaboration, and respect for sovereignty—a lesson that is long overdue.
Until Next Time…
I Am,
Ewing Redmond Samuels III