Using examples, define what is meant by the term 'superpower status'

A country with a 'superpower' status is one with the ability to project its power and influence across the globe, mainly through political, economic and military force. Other factors that contribute to a country's power include their geography (i.e. size and location), population and resources. These nations have the power to determine global economic and political policies, they maintain their power through the process of globalisation and in some cases a form of neo-colonialism where power is won through investments, aid and trade. A prime example of a country with a superpower status is the USA, with a GDP of 19.39 trillion USD, the highest in the world. Combined with their massive military force and huge political influence on the world stage, they represent a nation of extreme power. Despite being threatened by the recent emergence of Brazil, Russia, India and China (a.k.a BRICs) as superpowers in the last 3 decades, the USA remains arguably the biggest superpower in the world.