For years, the cultural dominance of the United States has remained intact on a global scale. The modern superpower has brought forward a huge influence on the world through its economic prowess, culture, and media. The cultural hegemony of the United States did not grow in one day, it took the world years to get diverted to the cultural essence of the west. There are several historical events that fostered the American impact onto the world.
From the perspective of global influence, there are very few countries that have managed to wield their cultural power as strongly as the United States. The fast food chains of the United States are spread all across the globe, and the craze of the Hollywood industry is something that the whole world adores.
The real question is, how did the United States reach at this position of cultural hegemony? Here, we try t understand the factors that led the United States to reach at this position.
Digging the history
The cultural hegemony of America can be traced back to the time when the World War II had just ended. It was at this time that most of the world was facing the aftermath effects of the World war. At this time, Asia was facing with the post-colonial challenges, and the Europe was devastated. However, a country that remained relatively unscathed was the United States. This relatively economically robust position allowed America to exert strong influence via its economic power. Yet, the cultural exports actually strengthened its dominance.
The Entertainment Industry
The cultural hegemony of America is primarily because of its entertainment industry. Since the 20th century, Hollywood movies have gained immense global audiences with their elaborate storytelling, huge star power, and special effects. Movies like "Titanic" and "Star Wars" not only entertained the world, but also spoke volumes about the lifestyle, aspirations, and values in America.
It was at this time that English as a language was dominating, and this further strengthened the craze for Hollywood movies.
Diplomacy and Soft Power
The cultural hegemony of America is also fostered by its soft power. This means that America has always held the ability to attract and convince by means of values, policies, and culture, instead of coercion. Institutions such as the Fulbright Program and more had strengthened this soft power. Moreover, initiatives by organizations such as the U.S. State Department to promote the American values and culture abroad, and various other cultural exchanges have further fostered the cultural hegemony of America.
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