Conor’s Perspective: A Historical Overview of U.S. Involvement in the Strait of Hormuz
In this exploration, Alfred McCoy places the United States’ engagement in the Strait of Hormuz within a vast historical context, drawing parallels with past empires.
By Alfred McCoy, Harrington Professor of History at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and author of Cold War on Five Continents. Originally published at TomDispatch.
Historical Echoes of Imperial Decline
More than 2,000 years ago, the Greek historian Plutarch articulated a concept that modern historians now refer to as “micro-militarism.” When empires such as ancient Athens or modern America face decline, leaders often respond with dramatic military actions, seeking to reclaim lost prestige. However, rather than restoring imperial glory, these actions typically hasten the empire’s decline, exposing the underlying moral decay of the ruling elite.
Evidence increasingly suggests that America is experiencing significant decline, with President Donald Trump’s conflict with Iran echoing the micro-military disasters that have historically led to the downfall of empires—from ancient Greece to modern Spain and Britain. At the heart of these misadventures often lies a flawed leader whose inadequacies exacerbate the irrational decision-making typical of empires in decline.
The Perils of Micro-Militarism
During periods of decline, imperial forces, once formidable, can find themselves embroiled in costly “micro-military” operations aimed at reclaiming lost power. These misguided efforts often target strategically untenable objectives, compounding existing financial pressures on the empire, humiliating its leaders, and further destabilizing its authority both at home and abroad.
As the dust settles in the wake of conflict, the ramifications of such defeats become clear. Alliances weaken, U.S. global dominance wanes, and disorder rises, resulting in economic turbulence on a global scale.
Recalling the Past: Lessons from Historical Disasters
The narrative of imperial disasters is rich, and echoes from the past can shed light on America’s current predicament, particularly in light of Trump’s military initiatives in the Middle East.
The Defeat of Athens in Sicily
In 413 BC, Athens—the powerful empire dominating the Aegean—faced its greatest military disaster. At the port of Piraeus, an unknown man revealed to a barber news of Athenian defeat in Sicily, igniting panic in the city. Aristocrat Nicias, suffering from indecision, had persuaded the Athenians to attack Syracuse, misjudging their capacity to regain lost hegemony. The result was a catastrophic defeat for Athens, with a fleet of 200 ships and 12,000 soldiers devastated. Instead of victory, Athens faced capture of its remaining soldiers and a quick decline into submission by Sparta, laying the groundwork for the city’s irreversible fall.
Portugal’s Debacle in Morocco
Fast forward to 1578, Portugal—a nation that once commanded the trade routes of the Indian Ocean—suffered a similar downfall under King Sebastian. Convinced of his obligation to engage in war against Islam, Sebastian led a crusade to Morocco, resulting in a disastrous defeat. This loss had enduring consequences, leading to a 60-year incorporation into the Spanish Empire and the eventual decline of Portuguese dominance in global trade.
Spain’s Disaster in the Atlas Mountains
By 1920, Spain, still reeling from losses in its colonies, sought to regain strength through military expansion in Morocco. In a misjudged attempt to reclaim glory, Spanish forces faced brutal resistance from the Berber Muslims, culminating in the catastrophic Battle of Annual, where 12,000 troops perished. Reflecting desperation, Spain resorted to atrocity-laden pacification strategies that ultimately dismantled its democratic fabric and paved the way for a totalitarian regime.
The End of the British Empire at Suez
In 1956, the British Empire faced its own moment of reckoning during the Suez Crisis. Following the nationalization of the Suez Canal by Egyptian President Nasser, British PM Anthony Eden, overwhelmed by panic, coordinated a military response alongside France and Israel. This venture, instead of restoring British power, culminated in a humiliation that laid bare the decline of British imperial dominance.
America’s Current Struggle in the Strait of Hormuz
Looking ahead to February 28, 2026, we may see a pivotal moment in U.S. history. Under Trump’s leadership, signs of fading hegemony are apparent as economic challenges from China mount and military setbacks become evident. In a bid to assert dominance, Trump undertook a military strike against Iran that mirrored past miscalculations, recalling the fateful decisions of prior empires.
As conflict ensued, U.S. aggression initially appeared successful, but Iran employed strategic countermeasures akin to those used by Nasser during the Suez Crisis, effectively closing the Strait of Hormuz to shipping and plunging the global economy into an unprecedented crisis. The U.S. found itself increasingly isolated and exposed, revealing the fragility of its previously unassailable position in world affairs.
Conclusion: The Consequences of Decline
The haunting patterns of history serve as a stark reminder of imperial decline and the dangers of miscalculated military strategies. As the U.S. navigates its complex position in the Strait of Hormuz, it risks repeating the mistakes of past empires, facing a downward trajectory in global influence. With alliances fraying and its grip on power slipping, the world may be watching the last gasps of an era dominated by American authority.
