USA IMPERIALISM

Imperialism

A policy of extending a country's power and influence through colonization, military force, or other means.

Seward's Folly

The purchase of Alaska from Russia in 1867, initially criticized as a waste.

Alfred Thayer Mahan

A naval officer who argued that a strong navy was essential for a nation's power and control over foreign markets.

Spanish-American War (1898)

A conflict between the USA and Spain leading to the acquisition of territories.

Yellow Journalism

Sensationalized news reporting that exaggerates facts to influence public opinion.

USS Maine

An American naval ship whose explosion in Havana Harbor contributed to the start of the Spanish-American War.

Treaty of Paris (1898)

The agreement that ended the Spanish-American War, granting the USA control over the Philippines, Guam, and Puerto Rico.

Platt Amendment

A 1901 amendment that allowed the U.S. to intervene in Cuban affairs and established a naval base at Guantanamo Bay.

Open Door Policy

U.S. policy aimed at ensuring equal trading rights for all nations in China.

Gentlemen’s Agreement

An informal agreement between the U.S. and Japan that limited Japanese immigration to the U.S.

Roosevelt Corollary

An addition to the Monroe Doctrine asserting U.S. intervention in Latin American conflicts to prevent European influence.

Dollar Diplomacy

Taft's foreign policy to use financial aid and loans to extend American influence.

Rough Riders

A volunteer cavalry regiment led by Teddy Roosevelt during the Spanish-American War.

San Juan Hill

The site of a significant victory for the Rough Riders in the Spanish-American War.

Cuban Revolt

A nationalist movement in Cuba aimed at overthrowing Spanish rule.

De Lome Letter

A letter from a Spanish minister that criticized President McKinley, inflaming American public opinion against Spain.

Commodore Matthew Perry

The naval officer who opened Japan to American trade in 1854.

Big Stick Policy

The foreign policy of Theodore Roosevelt, emphasizing diplomacy backed by military force.

Boxer Rebellion

A nationalist uprising in China from 1899 to 1901 aimed at ending foreign influence and promoting Chinese nationalism.