US history - AMERICAN IMPERIALISM

What economic reasons drove American imperialism in the late 1800s?

Industrial businesses sought new markets for goods and sources of raw materials.

What military reasons contributed to the push for American imperialism?

Military leaders believed the U.S. needed naval bases around the world to protect trade routes.

What cultural belief justified American expansion overseas?

Many Americans believed in nationalism and cultural superiority, feeling a duty to spread democracy and Christianity.

What ideology encouraged the belief that powerful nations dominate weaker ones?

Social Darwinism.

What was the concept of 'New Manifest Destiny'?

The belief that the U.S. should expand beyond its borders into the Caribbean and Pacific, rather than just west across North America.

Who was Alfred Thayer Mahan and what was his influence on imperialism?

A naval officer who argued that powerful nations controlled the seas and needed a strong navy and overseas bases.

What did Mahan believe was necessary for the United States to maintain global power?

A strong navy, overseas naval bases, and control of strategic sea routes.

Who was Henry Cabot Lodge and what was his stance on imperialism?

A U.S. senator who advocated for a larger navy and overseas territories to compete with European empires.

What was John Fiske's view on Anglo-Saxon civilization?

He promoted the idea that it was superior and destined to spread globally, justifying American expansion.

What led to the annexation of Hawaii?

American business leaders sought to annex Hawaii to avoid tariffs on sugar exports to the U.S.

Who was Queen Liliuokalani?

The last monarch of Hawaii who attempted to restore power to native Hawaiians before being overthrown.

What role did the U.S. military play in the overthrow of Queen Liliuokalani?

U.S. military forces supported American settlers in overthrowing her government.

When was Hawaii annexed by the United States?

In 1898.

What was the significance of Hawaii for the U.S. after annexation?

It became a strategically important naval base in the Pacific, especially at Pearl Harbor.

What were the causes of the Spanish-American War?

American sympathy for Cuban rebels, yellow journalism, and the explosion of the USS Maine.

What was yellow journalism?

Sensationalist newspaper reporting that exaggerated stories of Spanish cruelty in Cuba.

What was the De Lôme Letter and its impact?

A private letter from a Spanish diplomat criticizing President McKinley that angered Americans and increased tensions with Spain.

What happened to the USS Maine?

It exploded in Havana Harbor, leading many Americans to blame Spain and push for war.

What was the outcome of the Spanish-American War?

The war lasted a few months in 1898, with American forces defeating Spain in both the Caribbean and the Pacific.

What was the Rough Riders?

A volunteer cavalry regiment led by Theodore Roosevelt that fought in the Battle of San Juan Hill.

How did the Spanish-American War affect Theodore Roosevelt's career?

His leadership in the Rough Riders made him a national hero and helped him become President.

What treaty ended the Spanish-American War in 1898?

The Treaty of Paris

Which territories did the United States gain from Spain after the Treaty of Paris?

Puerto Rico, Guam, the Philippines, and Cuba (which became independent but under U.S. influence)

What was the purpose of the Anti-Imperialist League?

To oppose American expansion overseas and argue against imperialism as a violation of American ideals.

Name two prominent members of the Anti-Imperialist League.

Mark Twain and Andrew Carnegie

What were some reasons critics gave for opposing imperialism?

It contradicted democratic principles, could lead to expensive wars, and involved ruling people without their consent.

Who was Emilio Aguinaldo?

Filipino nationalist leader who expected independence for the Philippines after the defeat of Spain.

What conflict arose from the U.S. decision to retain control of the Philippines?

The Philippine-American War (1899-1902)

What was the Platt Amendment?

An amendment that allowed the U.S. to intervene in Cuban affairs and maintain naval bases there.

What did the Foraker Act establish for Puerto Rico?

A civilian government under U.S. authority.

What was the Open Door Policy?

A policy proposed by John Hay stating that all nations should have equal access to trade in China.

What was the significance of the Panama Canal?

It connected the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, greatly improving trade and naval movement.

What was Big Stick Diplomacy?

The policy of negotiating peacefully while maintaining a strong military, summarized by Theodore Roosevelt's phrase 'Speak softly and carry a big stick.'

What did the Roosevelt Corollary state?

The U.S. had the right to intervene in Latin American countries to maintain stability and prevent European interference.

What was Dollar Diplomacy?

A policy promoted by William Howard Taft that used economic influence instead of military force to strengthen American influence abroad.

What is Moral Diplomacy?

A policy introduced by Woodrow Wilson that promoted democracy and moral leadership in international relations.

What was the Great White Fleet?

A group of battleships sent on a world tour by Theodore Roosevelt to demonstrate American naval power.

How did American foreign policy change by the early 1900s?

The U.S. transformed from a nation focused on its own continent to a global power with overseas territories and international influence.

What was the impact of American imperialism on world politics?

It connected the U.S. to global trade and military conflicts, shaping American foreign policy throughout the 20th century.