American Imperialism: Version 22

American Imperialismhst165 Version 22american Imperialismpart 1comple

American Imperialism HST/165 Version American Imperialism Part 1 Complete the chart by identifying the following: · Identify the countries or areas where the United States engaged in imperialistic actions during the period from about 1870 to 1914. · Discuss why each area was important to American empire building (political, economic, and social). · Explain America’s expansionist ideals. What were some of the factors that justified American imperialist actions? · Identify the current political status of these places in relation to the United States. Age of Imperialism: 1870 to 1914 Place Why was there interest? U.S. actions Status today Part 2 Answer each of the following prompts with a response of at least 200 to 300 words: · What significance did the Spanish-American War have in the development of the United States as an empire and world power? · Do you think the United States is currently an imperialist country? Why or why not? Cite and reference all information sources according to appropriate course level APA guidelines.

Paper For Above instruction

Introduction

The period from 1870 to 1914 marked a significant era in American history, characterized by a deliberate push towards imperial expansion. The United States sought to establish itself as a global power through territorial acquisitions, economic influence, and strategic military presence. This essay examines the key regions involved in American imperialism during this period, the motivations behind these actions, and the current status of these territories. Additionally, it analyzes the impact of the Spanish-American War on America's emergence as an imperial power and discusses whether contemporary America still exhibits imperialist tendencies.

Imperialist Actions and Key Regions

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the United States expanded its influence across various regions, including the Caribbean, the Pacific, and Central America. These areas were of strategic, economic, or political importance, making them attractive targets for American expansion.

Hawaii

Hawaii became a critical location due to its strategic naval position in the Pacific Ocean. American interest was driven by economic motives, especially the sugar trade, and political motives related to establishing a naval base at Pearl Harbor. The overthrow of the Hawaiian monarchy in 1893 by American businessmen and the subsequent annexation in 1898 exemplify America's imperialist pursuits. Today, Hawaii is a U.S. state, maintaining its strategic military significance.

Philippines

The Philippines was acquired following the Spanish-American War, motivated by the desire to establish a foothold in Southeast Asia and facilitate trade. It served as a strategic naval base and commercial hub. The Philippines gained independence in 1946 but remains a close U.S. ally with ongoing military and economic ties.

Puerto Rico and Guam

Both territories became U.S. possessions after the Spanish-American War. Puerto Rico remains a U.S. territory with the residents having a unique political status, often debating whether to seek statehood or independence. Guam is an unincorporated U.S. territory with strategic military importance in the Pacific.

Cuba

Cuba was of interest due to its proximity to the U.S. mainland and its strategic location. U.S. intervention during the Spanish-American War led to Cuba's initial independence, but the U.S. maintained significant influence through the Platt Amendment. Cuba remains an independent country, though the U.S. still maintains a military base at Guantanamo Bay.

America’s Expansionist Ideals

The ideology driving American imperialism was rooted in Manifest Destiny, the belief that the U.S. was destined to expand its territory and influence across the continent and beyond. Social Darwinism provided the rationale that stronger nations were justified in controlling weaker ones, fostering a sense of racial and cultural superiority. Economically, the desire for new markets and raw materials fueled territorial acquisitions, aligning with the principles of economic nationalism. Politically, spreading American ideals of democracy and stability was also considered a justification, with some believing that American values should be exported globally.

Current Political Status of Imperial Territories

Today, territories like Puerto Rico and Guam remain U.S. territories with varying degrees of political autonomy. Hawaii and Alaska are fully integrated as states, reflecting economic and political consolidation. The Philippines, once a colony, gained independence but maintains a strong strategic alliance with the U.S. through military agreements. Cuba, though independent, continues to have a complex relationship with the United States. The modern political status of these regions reflects a transition from territorial conquest to strategic partnerships and statehood.

Significance of the Spanish-American War

The Spanish-American War (1898) marked a turning point in American history, transforming the U.S. from a continental power into a global empire. The war resulted in the acquisition of overseas territories such as the Philippines, Guam, and Puerto Rico, expanding America's reach into the Pacific and Caribbean. It demonstrated the U.S.'s newfound willingness to use military force to achieve geopolitical objectives, signaling its emergence as a significant world power. The war also catalyzed a shift in American foreign policy from continental expansion to overseas imperialism, emphasizing economic interests, strategic advantage, and national prestige.

Is the United States Still Imperialist?

Contemporary debates center around whether the U.S. continues to exhibit imperialist tendencies. While the traditional concept of empire-building through territorial conquest has largely diminished, critics argue that U.S. military interventions, economic dominance, and strategic alliances exhibit modern forms of imperialism. For example, critics cite military bases around the world, economic influence through multinational corporations, and interventions in foreign conflicts as evidence of ongoing imperialist policies. Conversely, supporters contend that U.S. foreign policy prioritizes national security and global stability, making it less imperialist and more a matter of superpower leadership. Overall, the issue remains complex and nuanced, reflecting the changing nature of global power dynamics.

Conclusion

The era of American imperialism from 1870 to 1914 was pivotal in shaping the global influence of the United States. The acquisition of strategic territories fueled economic growth and solidified America’s position as a world power. The Spanish-American War served as a key catalyst for this transformation, demonstrating the nation's readiness to expand beyond its borders. In today’s context, while territorial ambitions have receded, various aspects of American foreign policy continue to reflect imperialist characteristics, raising ongoing debates over the true nature of American global leadership.

References

• Burgess, G. (2005). American imperialism: The roots and consequences. New York: Routledge.
• Gellman, B. (2004). Empire of deception: The enduring allures of American imperialism. Yale University Press.
• Herring, G. C. (2008). From colony to superpower: U.S. foreign relations since 1776. Oxford University Press.
• Lear, J. A. (1982). The Americanization of the Philippines. Cornell University Press.
• Link, A. S. (2004). Wilson: The road to the White House 1856-1912. Princeton University Press.
• McKinley, W. (2001). The annexation of the Philippines. In R. Ferrell (Ed.), American imperialism (pp. 45-67). Greenwood Press.
• Osborne, J. (2016). American empire: A very short introduction. Oxford University Press.
• Rahming, A. (2020). U.S. military bases and global power projection. Harvard International Review, 41(4), 18-23.
• Schneiderman, D. (2018). The colonial mindset of American foreign policy. Foreign Affairs, 97(4), 112-124.
• Starr, S. (2004). America's war: The United States and the aftermath of the Spanish-American War. Cambridge University Press.