In this timely and compelling new volume, Michael Cox aims to analyse the whole of the Bush era in a broader historical context. In a cogent and carefully argued analysis, he uncovers some of the fundamental assumptions that tempted the Bush administration to go to war with Iraq, and explores the international consequences of that decision. He goes on to assess the current status of what he terms 'the American Empire' and looks ahead to life after George Bush.The book features a wide range of case studies, from an investigation of the events of 9/11 and their implication for international relations, to a comparison of America's global standing after the Cold War and following the invasion of Iraq.Written by the leading UK writer on American international relations, The Rise and Fall of the American Empire will be a highly influential contribution to American debates on the importance and the impact of the Bush era.