The lust for empire

The phrase "lust for empire" carries significant historical and cultural weight, often referring to the intense desire for territorial expansion and dominance over other nations or peoples. This concept has been explored in political rhetoric, literature, and media, reflecting both historical events and fictional narratives. Below, I address the theme primarily through the lens of historical discourse, focusing on a key political speech, while also touching on relevant cultural representations.

Historical Context: George F. Hoar's Speech Against Imperialism

The phrase "lust for empire" is notably associated with a speech by George Frisbie Hoar, a U.S. Senator from Massachusetts, delivered on April 17, 1900, in the United States Senate. In this address, titled "The Lust for Empire," Hoar vehemently opposed the annexation of the Philippines and other territories following the Spanish-American War, arguing that such actions were unconstitutional and contrary to American principles. He asserted that governing foreign peoples against their will was not a purpose enshrined in the U.S. Constitution, which he believed was framed to "form a more perfect union, establish justice, insure domestic tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general welfare, and secure the blessings of liberty" to Americans and their posterity, not to subjugate others ^[1][2][3].

Hoar challenged the notion of unlimited sovereign power, disputing claims by some contemporaries that the U.S., as a nation, could exercise any power not explicitly denied by the Constitution. He argued that the framers of the Constitution never intended to grant the power to conquer and govern foreign nations without their consent, a practice he described as abhorrent to American values. He further criticized the emerging doctrine of imperialism, suggesting that it represented a dangerous departure from the moral and legal constraints that had guided the nation’s growth from 3 million to 75 million people across 45 states ^[1].

Moreover, Hoar condemned the idea that the American flag, once raised in a territory during war, could never be taken down without dishonor. He cited historical examples, such as the U.S. withdrawal from Mexico and England’s withdrawal from Washington, D.C., after the War of 1812, to argue that such a doctrine was neither grounded in international law nor consistent with national honor ^[1]. He also expressed moral outrage at the idea of imposing American notions of freedom and governance on unwilling peoples, likening such actions to hypocrisy and warning of divine rebuke ^[1].

Cultural Representations: "Empire of Lust" in Media

Beyond historical discourse, the theme of "lust for empire" appears in cultural works, often symbolizing ambition, power, and moral conflict. One prominent example is the 2015 South Korean period action film Empire of Lust (original title: Sunsu-ui sidae, meaning "The Age of Innocence"). Set during the establishment of the Joseon dynasty after the fall of Goryeo, the film explores themes of love, betrayal, loyalty, and revenge amidst political upheaval. It centers on characters like Kim Min-jae, a general protecting the new dynasty, and Yi Bang-won, a prince with ambitions for the throne, weaving a narrative of personal and political lust for power. The film, starring Shin Ha-kyun and Jang Hyuk, has been noted for its intense depictions of violence and raw emotion, though some critiques highlight its disturbing content and lack of character relatability ^[4][5].

Additionally, the phrase appears in modern literature and gaming. Rina Kent’s romance novel Empire of Lust: An Enemies with Benefits Romance uses the term metaphorically to explore personal power dynamics and desire ^[6][7]. Similarly, a 2025 video game titled Empire of Lust on Steam focuses on rising through Roman high society via charm and seduction, reflecting a more individualized interpretation of empire-building through personal ambition ^[8].

Broader Implications

The "lust for empire" encapsulates a recurring tension in human history between the drive for expansion and the ethical dilemmas it poses. Hoar’s speech highlights a critical moment in American history when the nation grappled with its identity as either a republic rooted in liberty or an imperial power subjugating others, a debate that resonates with earlier and later critiques of colonialism and expansionism ^[1][2]. Meanwhile, cultural works like Empire of Lust illustrate how the pursuit of power—whether political or personal—often intertwines with moral corruption and personal tragedy, offering a timeless lens on human ambition ^[4][5].

In summary, "lust for empire" serves as both a literal critique of imperialist policies, as seen in Hoar’s impassioned arguments, and a metaphorical exploration of power and desire in various artistic expressions. Together, these perspectives underscore the complex interplay of ambition, morality, and governance across different contexts.

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• https://speakola.com/political/george-hoar-the-lust-for-empire-phillipines-cuba-19     
• https://dp.la/item/f68a670df8b736c5bdc868c4b5d0b6a3  
• https://www.thriftbooks.com/w/the-lust-of-empire/13015927/ 
• https://www.imdb.com/title/tt3544326/  
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Empire_of_Lust  
• https://www.indigo.ca/en-ca/empire-of-lust-an-enemies-with-benefits-romance/9781685450922.html 
• https://www.indigo.ca/en-ca/empire-of-lust/e2a59405-857d-3716-82b4-9ce22ae3bccb.html 
• https://store.steampowered.com/app/3684700/?from=steamfocus