In "The Empire Abroad and the Empire at Home," John Cullen Gruesser examines the reactions of African American writers at the beginning of the 20th century to overseas expansion and its effects on racial relations at home. Gruesser argues that the works of these writers not only make a significant contribution to African American literary studies but also have a substantial impact on the political history of the United States. Through the analysis of these literary responses, a deeper understanding of the complex interactions between imperial ambitions and the challenges faced by African American communities is provided. This book is a valuable resource for anyone interested in the intersections of literature, race, and politics.