7.2 - Imperialism Debates

Imperialists

Those who supported the expansion of American influence and control over other countries, driven by motives such as spreading democracy, accessing new markets, and competing with European powers.

Anti-Imperialists

Those who opposed the expansion of American influence and control over other countries, advocating for principles such as self-determination, isolationism, and rejecting racial theories as a basis for opposition.

Economic Imperialism

The form of American imperialism that focused on gaining economic opportunities, such as accessing new markets and resources in other countries.

Annexation

The act of incorporating a territory or country into another, except in the case of Hawaii, which was annexed by the United States.

Main Causes of WW1

The factors that contributed to the outbreak of World War 1, including militarism, alliances, imperialism/industrialization, and nationalism.

Monroe Doctrine

A policy established in 1823 that aimed to prevent European colonization in the Americas and asserted the United States' dominance in the region.

Social Darwinism

A belief system that applied Darwin's theory of natural selection to human societies, justifying the dominance of certain races or nations over others.

Isolationism

A policy of avoiding involvement in the affairs of other nations and focusing on domestic issues.

Racial Theories

Beliefs or ideologies that ascribe certain characteristics or qualities to different races, often used to justify imperialism or opposition to it.

Roosevelt Corollary

An addition to the Monroe Doctrine that asserted the United States' right to intervene in Latin American countries to protect its economic interests and maintain stability.

Frontier Thesis

The idea put forth by historian Frederick Jackson Turner that the closing of the American frontier had a profound impact on American society and shaped its character. He stated that the American frontier shaped the American character and democracy. He argued that the westward movement fostered individualism, independence, and democratic values. Turner believed that the closing of the frontier marked the end of an era and presented new challenges. This thesis greatly influenced the study of American history and our understanding of westward expansion.

Self-determination

The principle that people have the right to determine their own political status and make decisions about their own future.

Farewell Address

George Washington's final address as president, in which he advised against entangling alliances and emphasized the importance of maintaining neutrality and avoiding foreign conflicts.

Anti-Imperialist League

An organization formed by individuals who opposed American imperialism, including notable members such as William Jennings Bryan, Jane Addams, and Mark Twain.