Hegemony and the Middle East?

To break in down into very simple terms hegemony is one social group having dominance over another. After looking at the readings for a second time, I feel that I better understand what Grimsci is talking about. I feel that that a perfect example of hegemony in today's society would be American troops in the Middle East.

American troops invading the Middle East is a perfect example for hegemony. It shows that American government going into a the country of Iraq, who has much less social status than America, and changing it. It's a very controversial topic and I won't be able to fit everything into this short response, but I'll try to sum it all up. America is a very dominant country, which also influences many other countries. But the difference between how it influences other countries and what's going on in Iraq is completely drastic. American troops have been sent to Iraq to force the people of Iraq to do things their way. They aren't giving Iraq any choose in the matter, and are planning on staying there until everything is good to the American eye. While some of the people of Iraq are happy with the changes, just as many people aren't and they also aren't given any choice in the matter. America is taking their well known power and forcing Iraq to abide to their rules.

Originally, when American troops were sent to Iraq I was all for it, but now I feel that they have over stayed their welcome. I feel that we should leave them alone and let them figure out what's best for their country on their own. We shouldn't be using our power to make them do what WE want. Also, to many soldiers are dying for the "cause." I believe that they some should stay to keep on eye on terrorism, but all and all we need to get out and stop bullying them. America is all about freedom, and making your own choices, so why don't they stop trying to make choices for others.