Imperial Republic Discussion

Instructions: 

Read the following Discussion question carefully, then submit an original answer.  Your answer should be at least a few sentences to a paragraph in length.  There is no "right" or "wrong" answer, but your opinion should be well-reasoned and based on fact.  (no references needed) this is just an opinion...

Did Imperialism benefit the United States as a whole--economically, diplomatically, and militarily?  Or did it prove to be a bigger drain than it was worth?  Cite examples for your answer.