What Motivates Historical Figures: Symbol, Motive, Summary

Historical Figuremotive Symbolsummary Explain What Motivates This P

Explain what motivates this person to support American imperialism. Cite evidence from the reading to support your answer. How does the symbol you drew represent this school of thought.

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American imperialism at the turn of the 20th century was driven by diverse motivations held by influential figures, each embodying distinct visions for the United States' role in the world. Among these, Henry Cabot Lodge, Josiah Strong, Carl Schurz, and Alfred T. Mahan articulated philosophies that justified America's expansionist policies through different perspectives—national strength, civilizing mission, diplomatic restraint, and naval power, respectively.

Henry Cabot Lodge championed expansion as a vital pathway for national growth and civilization's progress. His belief that "small states are of the past" underscored his emphasis on creating large, powerful nations capable of defending and expanding their interests globally (Lodge, 1895). He viewed imperialism as a civilizing force that would facilitate America's leadership in world affairs. The symbol representing Lodge's school of thought might be a large, well-fortified fortress or a globe encircled by a powerful arm, signifying strength, territorial expansion, and global influence.

Josiah Strong's motivation stemmed from a religious and racial motive—believing that the Anglo-Saxon race was divinely appointed to spread Christianity, liberty, and civilization across the globe. His assertion that "God is training the Anglo-Saxon race" to dominate future world affairs reflects a manifest destiny rooted in divine providence (Strong, 1885). The symbol representing Strong's perspective could be a compass or a cross overlaying a globe, symbolizing divine guidance and the civilizing mission of the Anglo-Saxon race.

Carl Schurz prioritized moral righteousness and diplomacy in international relations. He advocated for a foreign policy characterized by respect for other nations' rights and a focus on peace. His view that America should influence through its good example rather than military might is encapsulated in his phrase, "wars prevented, not won" (Schurz, 1896). A suitable symbol for Schurz's school would be a balanced scale or a dove, representing justice, peace, and moral integrity in foreign policy.

Alfred Thayer Mahan emphasized the strategic importance of naval power as the backbone of influence and empire. His assertion that control over key harbors and coaling stations enables global power demonstrates a military and economic underpinning for imperialism (Mahan, 1890). The symbol representing Mahan’s philosophy might be a battleship or a naval helm, emphasizing seapower and maritime dominance essential for extending influence.

In conclusion, each figure's motivation reflects different facets of imperialism: Lodge's strategic strength, Strong's civilizing mission guided by divinity, Schurz's diplomatic pacifism, and Mahan's naval supremacy. The chosen symbols encapsulate these schools of thought and their underlying beliefs about America's role in establishing or maintaining global dominance and peace.

References

• Lodge, H. C. (1895). The Business World vs. the Politicians. Geographical Magazine.
• Strong, J. (1885). Our Country. Harper & Brothers.
• Schurz, C. (1896). Speech to the New York Chamber of Commerce.
• Mahan, A. T. (1890). The United States Looking Outward. Atlantic Monthly.