Chapter 19 Key Terms

Imperialism

Imperialism

The policy of the United States expanding its influence and control over other countries or territories. This was driven by economic interests, military power, and a belief in American exceptionalism. Examples include the acquisition of the Philippines, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico, as well as interventions in Latin America and Asia.

John Hay

He advocated for the Open Door Policy in China, securing equal trade access for all nations. He negotiated the Treaty of Paris, ending the Spanish-American War. He also played a key role in the construction of the Panama Canal.

Open Door Polcy

Late 19th-century US foreign policy promoting equal trade access to China, proposed by Secretary of State John Hay. Aimed to prevent colonization and secure commercial opportunities for all nations in China. Advocated for open markets and protection of Chinese territorial integrity.

Boxer Rebellion

Violent uprising in China from 1899-1901 against foreign influence and Christian missionaries. Chinese secret society, the Boxers, targeted foreigners and Chinese Christians. US joined international forces to suppress the rebellion, protecting American interests and citizens in China. Marked increased US involvement in global affairs.

Guano Island Acts of 1856

Legislation allowing the US to claim uninhabited islands rich in guano (bird droppings) for economic exploitation and strategic purposes.

Hawaii

In 1898, the United States officially annexed this nation, making it a territory. This decision was controversial, as some believed it was an act of imperialism. The annexation was driven by economic interests, as Hawaii offered strategic military advantages and a valuable sugar industry. It marked a significant moment in US expansionism."

Porforio Diaz

Mexican dictator who ruled from 1876-1911. He promoted foreign investment, modernization, and economic growth in Mexico. However, his regime was marked by corruption, repression, and social inequality. His policies favored the interests of foreign investors and elites, leading to widespread discontent and the Mexican Revolution in 1910.

Victoriano Huerta

A Mexican general who seized power in 1913 through a coup d'état, leading to a period of dictatorship known as the Huerta regime. He was opposed by various revolutionary factions, including the forces led by Francisco Madero. His regime was marked by corruption and human rights abuses, ultimately leading to his downfall in 1914.

Venustiano Carranza

Mexican president from 1917-1920, played a key role in the Mexican Revolution. He implemented land reforms, drafted the Mexican Constitution of 1917, and aimed to establish a more democratic and stable government. His presidency was marked by challenges from various factions and ultimately ended with his assassination in 1920.

Pancho Villa

Mexican revolutionary leader during the Mexican Revolution (1910-1920). Known for his military skills and tactics, he fought against the dictatorship of Porfirio Díaz and later against the government of Victoriano Huerta. He led the Division del Norte and played a significant role in shaping Mexican politics and society during this turbulent period.

Francisco Madero

Mexican revolutionary and politician who led the Mexican Revolution against Porfirio Díaz. He served as the 33rd President of Mexico from 1911 until his assassination in 1913. His presidency marked the beginning of democratic reforms in Mexico.

John J. Pershing

Commander of the American Expeditionary Force during World War I. Led U.S. troops into Mexico to capture Pancho Villa after his raids on U.S. soil. Known for his disciplined leadership and successful military strategies. Played a crucial role in stabilizing the Mexico-U.S. border during the Mexican Revolution.

Spanish-American War

A conflict between Spain and the United States in 1898. It began after the explosion of the USS Maine in Havana harbor. The war resulted in American victory, leading to Spain's loss of its colonies in Cuba, Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines.

Philippine-American War

Armed conflict (1899-1902) between the United States and the Philippines. It arose from the Filipino struggle for independence after the U.S. acquired the Philippines from Spain. The war resulted in American victory and the establishment of U.S. colonial rule in the Philippines.

Valeriano Weyler

Spanish general appointed as Governor-General of Cuba in 1896. Implemented brutal tactics, known as "reconcentration," to suppress the Cuban independence movement. Thousands of civilians were forced into concentration camps, leading to widespread suffering and death. His actions fueled anti-Spanish sentiment and helped spark the Spanish-American War.

USS Maine

A U.S. battleship that exploded in Havana Harbor in 1898. The incident intensified tensions between the U.S. and Spain, leading to the Spanish-American War.

“Yellow Journals”

Sensationalized newspapers that exaggerated stories to attract readers and manipulate public opinion.

Rough Riders

Group of volunteer cavalry led by Theodore Roosevelt during the Spanish-American War; known for their bravery and skill in battle.

Treaty of Paris of 1898

Ended the Spanish-American War. Spain ceded Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines to the US. Cuba gained independence. US paid Spain $20 million for the Philippines.

Santiago de Cuba

City located in eastern Cuba, served as the landing site for the start of the Spanish-American War in 1898. It is also known for being the final resting place of Fidel Castro.

Albert J. Beveridge

A US Senator from Indiana that preached for imperialism. Envisioned an American Empire

Emilio Aguinaldo

Filipino revolutionary leader and first President of the Philippines. He played a crucial role in the Philippine Revolution against Spanish colonial rule and later fought against American occupation. Aguinaldo's leadership marked a significant chapter in the struggle for Philippine independence.

American Anti-imperialist League

Opposed U.S. expansion and imperialism. Formed in 1898. Advocated for self-determination of nations. Criticized annexation of Philippines. Prominent members included Mark Twain and Andrew Carnegie. Dissolved in early 20th century.

Alfred Thayer Mahan

American naval officer and historian who emphasized the importance of sea power in shaping global politics. His book "The Influence of Sea Power Upon History" argued that a strong navy was crucial for a nation's economic and military success. Mahan's ideas influenced the naval strategies of many countries, including the United States, and contributed to the expansion of naval forces worldwide.

“Big Stick” Diplomacy

Policy used by Theodore Roosevelt to assert US dominance in the Western Hemisphere. It involved using military force to protect American interests and intervene in Latin American countries if necessary.

Dollar Diplomacy

US foreign policy under President Taft that used economic influence to advance American interests abroad, especially in Latin America and East Asia, by encouraging investment and lending. Aimed to promote stability and expand US commercial influence, often through supporting infrastructure projects.

Roosevelt Corollary

Extension of Monroe Doctrine that asserted the US's right to intervene in Latin America to maintain stability and protect its economic interests.

Margaret McLeod

Projected the image of middle-class American domesticity, or “pure womanhood” by demonstrating Heinz products.

Josephine Shaw Lowell

A prominent advocate for social reform and women's rights. She played a key role in the anti-imperialism movement, opposing the expansionist policies of the United States. Her efforts focused on addressing the negative consequences of imperialism and promoting international cooperation.

Chicago Haymarket Affair

A labor protest in Chicago in 1886 that turned violent when a bomb exploded, resulting in several deaths. Immigrants played a significant role in the labor movement, advocating for better working conditions and fair treatment. The incident led to the trial and execution of several labor activists, sparking international debates on workers' rights and the treatment of immigrants.

Franklin Benjamin Sanborn

Advocated for progressive immigration policies in the late 19th century. He believed in welcoming immigrants and promoting cultural diversity to strengthen the nation. Sanborn's efforts contributed to the development of more inclusive and humanitarian immigration practices. However, he also advocated federal action to stop “indiscriminate and unregulated immigration.”

Page Act

A US federal law that restricted the immigration of Asian women, particularly those engaged in prostitution. It was the first federal law to restrict immigration based on race and gender.

Chinese Exclusion Act

Legislation passed in 1882 to prohibit Chinese immigration to the United States. It was the first major law restricting immigration based on race. The act lasted for 61 years and was only repealed in 1943. It fueled anti-Chinese sentiment and discrimination, impacting Chinese communities and laborers in the US.

Immigration Act

U.S. law restricting immigration by imposing a tax on immigrants and excluding certain groups, such as convicts and the mentally ill. It marked the first significant federal regulation of immigration and set the stage for future immigration restrictions in the United States.

Gentlemen’s Agreement

Informal agreement between the US and Japan (1907-1908) to limit Japanese immigration to the US. Japan agreed to stop issuing passports to laborers, and the US promised to allow the entry of Japanese spouses of current residents.

Americanists

Advocates for an end to ethnic parishes in America and rapid assimilation into the English-speaking mainsteam.