the context of international relations. In this work, Stoerk argues that, despite America’s geographical and cultural differences from Europe, there has developed a distinctive American approach to international law shaped by historical events and political interactions. He critiques the European notions of sovereignty and intervention, emphasizing the United States' unique position and its evolving legal paradigm. Through a detailed analysis, Stoerk reveals the complexities of American diplomacy, including the implications of the Spanish-American War and the practices surrounding territorial claims and influence over Central and South America. Ultimately, the book provides insights into the ways American states navigate their relationships with each other and with European powers, pushing for a unique legal identity that resists outright colonial parallels while grappling with the tensions inherent in their historical relationships. (This is an automatically generated summary.)