Hush Unit 8: Imperialism and WWI

Rough Riders

A volunteer cavalry unit led by Theodore Roosevelt during the Spanish-American War.

Isolationists

People who believed the U.S. should stay out of foreign conflicts and alliances.

Sphere of Influence

An area where a powerful nation controls trade or politics without direct rule.

Alaska Annexation

The U.S. purchase of Alaska from Russia in 1867.

Seward’s Folly

A nickname for the Alaska purchase, as many Americans thought it was a bad deal.

Hawaii (HI) Annexation

When the United States officially took control of Hawaii in 1898.

Spanish-American War / War of 1898

A short war between the U.S. and Spain that increased U.S. overseas power.

War in the Philippines

A conflict where Filipinos fought against U.S. control after the Spanish-American War.

Panama Canal Construction

The building of a canal connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.

Unrestricted Submarine Warfare

Germany’s policy of sinking ships without warning during World War I.

Zimmermann Note (Telegram)

A secret German message proposing an alliance with Mexico against the U.S.

American Imperialism

The policy of expanding U.S. power and influence beyond its borders.

Open Door Policy

A policy promoting equal trading rights for all nations in China.

Platt Amendment

A law limiting Cuba’s independence and allowing U.S. intervention.

Roosevelt Corollary

The policy stating the U.S. could intervene in Latin American countries.

Big Stick Diplomacy

Using military strength to support U.S. foreign policy goals.

Dollar Diplomacy

Using economic power instead of military force to influence other nations.

Moral Diplomacy

A policy of promoting democracy and moral values in foreign affairs.

Jingoism

Extreme patriotism that supports aggressive foreign policy.

Yellow Journalism

Sensationalized news used to influence public opinion.

Great White Fleet

A group of U.S. Navy ships sent worldwide to show American military power.