American Imperialism

Imperialism

A country’s expansion of power over other nations.

Jose Marti

Cuban writer and revolutionary who fought for independence from Spain.

Yellow Journalism

Sensational news stories design to attract readers and create public outrage.

Ostend Manifesto

A secret proposal suggesting that the United States should acquire an island in the Caribbean, event through force.

De Lome Letter

A private message from a European diplomat criticizing an American president.

Explosion of the Maine

A mysterious naval disaster in Havana harbor that killed over 260 American sailors.

Spanish-American War

An 1898 conflict between Washington and Madrid over Cuba and overseas influences.

Rough Riders

A volunteer cavalry unit led by a future American president during the conflict in Cuba.

Commodore George Dewey

Naval commander who defeated Spanish forces in Manila Bay.

Teller Amendment

A congressional promise that the United States would not permanently control cuba after defeating Spain.

Platt Amendment

A set of conditions that allowed Washington to interfere in Cuban’s affairs.

Annexed Territories

Regions officially added to a country’s national boundaries.

Alfred Thayer Mahan

Naval historian who believed a powerful fleet was essential for national greatness.

Panama Canal

An artificial waterway connecting two major oceans through Central American.

Arguments for Imperialism

Reason supporting overseas expansion, including wealth, security, and international influence.

Arguments for Imperialism

Reasons opposing foreing domination, including freedom, equality, and national independence.

American Territories

Puerto Rico, Guam, and The Philippines.

Open Door Policy

A proposal that foreign nations should have equal trading opportunities within China.

Boxer Rebellion

A Chinese uprising against influence and Christian missionaries around 1900.

Dollar Diplomacy

A foreign policy that used private investments and financial influence to strengthen international relationships.

Roosevelt Corollary to Monroe Doctrine

A presidential addition claiming the right to intervene in neighboring nations to prevent European involvement.