Imperialism and American Expansion

These flashcards cover key concepts related to U.S. imperialism, its motivations, policies, significant events, and individual contributions to historical developments.

What is Imperialism?

The policy of stronger nations extending economic, political, or military control over weaker territories.

What is a Protectorate?

A country that is technically independent but under the control of another country.

What prompted the United States to pursue imperialism?

European economic and political imperialism prompted the U.S. to expand likewise.

What were some reasons European nations sought overseas expansion?

Need for raw materials, high tariffs on trade goods, and overseas investment opportunities.

What does 'Thirst for new markets' refer to in the context of American Imperialism?

The need for new markets for surplus goods due to advancements in technology.

What is Social Darwinism?

Belief in cultural superiority implying the survival of the fittest, where Anglo-Saxons were seen as racially superior.

What was the Great White Fleet?

A naval fleet created to enhance U.S. military strength and international presence.

Who argued for Anglo-Saxonism?

Historian John Fiske argued that English-speaking nations had superior character and systems of government.

What role did Josiah Strong play in American Imperialism?

He linked Anglo-Saxonism to Christian missionary ideas, advocating for U.S. power overseas.

What action did the U.S. take regarding Samoa?

The U.S. became more assertive, even risking war with Germany over control of Samoa.

What was Captain Alfred T. Mahan’s influence in U.S. Navy expansion?

He built public support for a Navy emphasizing the significance of naval power for prosperous nations.

How did the U.S. acquire Hawaii?

Through pressures from U.S. agricultural businessmen and military intervention against the Hawaiian monarchy.

What was the McKinley Tariff?

A tariff that made Hawaiian sugar more expensive and incentivized planters to push for annexation.

What did President Cleveland think about the annexation of Hawaii?

He was anti-imperialist and wanted to restore Hawaiian Queen Liliuokalani to power.

What was the outcome of the Spanish-American War in terms of Spain's colonies?

Spain lost most colonies, retaining only the Philippines and Guam, among others.

What triggered the second Cuban revolution in 1895?

José Martí launched a guerilla campaign against Spanish rule, provoking U.S. intervention.

What role did yellow journalism play in the American sentiment towards the Cuban rebellion?

Exaggerated accounts by newspapers heightened American sympathy for the Cuban rebels.

What was the De Lome Letter and its impact?

A letter insulting President McKinley, which inflamed American public opinion against Spain.

What was the rallying cry for war after the USS Maine explosion?

'Remember the Maine' became a slogan for advocating against Spain.

What was the significance of Ybor City in the context of the Cuban Revolution?

Ybor City was where rebels planned the second Cuban Revolution and served as a port for U.S. troops.

What was the impact of Commodore George Dewey during the Spanish-American War?

He led the American fleet in a decisive attack against the Spanish fleet in Manila Bay.

What was the significance of Kettle Hill and San Juan Hill?

They were key battle sites where the Rough Riders and African American units fought during the war.

What did the Treaty of Paris result in for the U.S.?

The U.S. acquired Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines, while Cuba was freed.

What were the arguments for and against the annexation of the Philippines?

For: economic/military benefits; Against: denial of self-government to the Filipinos.

What did the Teller Amendment state?

It stated that the U.S. had no intention of taking over Cuba.

What was the Platt Amendment?

It restricted Cuba from making certain treaties and allowed U.S. intervention.

What was the Philippine-American War?

A conflict following the U.S. annexation of the Philippines, leading to guerrilla warfare.

How did the Open Door Policy affect American relations with China?

It aimed to ensure equal trading rights for all nations in China.

What was the Boxer Rebellion?

A revolt in China against foreign influence, leading to international intervention.

What did President William H. Taft emphasize in his foreign policy?

He focused on economic development and Dollar Diplomacy rather than military intervention.

How did President Woodrow Wilson's approach differ from Roosevelt's?

Wilson's Missionary Diplomacy focused on promoting democracy and moral leadership instead of military intervention.