**US Imperialism Comes Home: A Quarter Century of War**
For nearly 25 years, Tom Engelhardt has written about the Global War on Terror, bearing witness to its devastating impact on countless lives. In his farewell column, Engelhardt reflects on how US imperialism has evolved, ultimately making its way back to American soil through the presidency of Donald Trump.
I was living in New York when the World Trade Center was attacked on September 11th, 2001, marking a pivotal moment in the War on Terror. As Engelhardt explains, the aftermath of 9/11 was characterized by a sense of national unity and fear, which the Bush administration skillfully exploited. They capitalized on this atmosphere to launch a series of military interventions in the Middle East, Afghanistan, and Iraq.
The US went to war in Afghanistan in 2001, but the conflict has since become the longest in US history. Engelhardt notes that the war has had a profound impact on the lives of Afghans and Americans alike, with many families torn apart by loss and trauma.
The rise of ISIS in the late 2000s marked another turning point in the War on Terror. The group’s brutal tactics and global reach sparked widespread outrage and fear, but Engelhardt argues that the US response only contributed to further chaos and instability in the region.
**From Overseas to Ourselves**
Engelhardt’s most striking observation, however, is that the effects of US imperialism are no longer confined to distant battlefields. Instead, they have come home in the form of Donald Trump’s presidency, which Engelhardt describes as a manifestation of US militarism and xenophobia.
Trump’s policies, from his travel bans to his border wall, reflect a deep-seated fear of the “other” and a desire to isolate America from the world. This is, Engelhardt argues, a direct result of the US’s decades-long involvement in wars that have created a culture of fear and militarism among Americans.
**What This Means**
For the average American, Engelhardt’s column serves as a stark reminder of the true cost of US militarism. As the War on Terror enters its third decade, it’s essential to recognize that the consequences of these conflicts are no longer limited to distant lands. Instead, they are unfolding in our own backyards, shaping our politics, our culture, and our relationships with one another.
By supporting outlets like Truthout, we can work towards a more accurate and transparent understanding of the world around us. Only through a nuanced and honest examination of the War on Terror can we hope to rebuild a more just and peaceful society for all.
