I used to think that but now I think it is far more. Countries where we have bases essentially become vassal states, reliant on us for protection. This means we

I used to think that but now I think it is far more. Countries where we have bases essentially become vassal states, reliant on us for protection. This means we get favorable trade agreements as well as the opportunity to shape the world to our needs. It allows the US to exert massive influence over the course of world events and allows for the perpetuation of the US as the worlds top economic power.