Social Darwinism and U.S. Imperialism in the 19th Century

Social Darwinism

Application of natural selection to human societies.

Economic Interests

Desire for new markets and raw materials.

Strategic Military Locations

Control of territories for naval bases.

Cultural Ideology

Belief in spreading Western ideals and democracy.

Open Door Policy

Ensured equal trade access in China.

Big Stick Policy

Negotiate peacefully, threaten military force.

Roosevelt Corollary

U.S. right to intervene in Latin America.

Cuban Revolt

American support for Cuban independence from Spain.

Sinking of U.S.S. Maine

Event triggering the Spanish-American War.

Platt Amendment

Conditions for U.S. withdrawal from Cuba.

Panama Canal

Waterway connecting Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.

Annexation of Philippines

U.S. acquisition leading to conflict with nationalists.

Imperialism

Extending power through colonization and military force.

Sphere of Influence

Region dominated by one country without formal authority.

Yellow Journalism

exaggeration of stories

to attract readers and influence public opinion.

Foraker Act

Established civilian government in Puerto Rico.

Protectorate

Territory controlled by a stronger country.

Alaska

Purchased from Russia, important for resources.

Anglo-Saxonism

Belief in superiority of Anglo-Saxon cultures.

Manifest Destiny

Belief in U.S. expansion across North America.

Colonialism

Establishing control over foreign territories.

Naval Bases

Strategic locations for military operations.

Economic Expansion

Growth of trade and industry through new territories.

Cultural Superiority

Belief in the dominance of Western culture.

Spanish-American War

Conflict resulting from U.S. intervention in Cuba.

Guantánamo Bay

U.S. naval base established in Cuba.

Sensationalism

Sensationalist news reporting to influence public opinion.