Should a Superpower Establish Spheres of Influence?.
The concept of the establishment of spheres of influence is definitely a significant factor in determining the ability and strength of a superpower. Many do not agree that a superpower should establish spheres of influence, because it can lead to resentment towards the superpower in some cases. However, it is clear that it is in the best interest of a superpower to establish spheres of influence. This is because they benefit the country economically, along with promoting friendly relations. Having spheres of influence also allow superpowers to spread their political beliefs and ideologies and prevent these nations from being introduced to opposing ideas.
One of the main intentions of establishing a sphere of influence is to benefit economically from the smaller nation. This clearly is in the best interest of the superpower. For example, Cuba being a sphere of influence of the United States had greatly benefited Americans up until Castro's revolution in 1958. During the 1950's, the role of the United States in the Cuban economy grew tremendously. The telephone, electrical, sugar, and railway industries were prospering. The United States would import Cuban agricultural and mineral products, and export manufactured goods into Cuba. This economic imperialism further strengthened the United States and proved the significance of having spheres of influence. Along with economic growth, spheres of influence also promote friendly relations amongst nations.
Becoming a sphere of influence of a superpower automatically gives the smaller nation a sense of comfort and protection. In a sense, its like the comfort an individual gets when he knows he has friends to be there for him when he needs them in times of distress, or if he is involved in a confrontation. For example, before Mao Tse-tung led his Peoples" Liberation Army to victory in China, his forces had been provided with military and technical support through Communist International (Comintern).
