The Progressive Presidents

Imperialism

Complete control of another nation’s political, economic, and social life through military force, economic dominance, or diplomacy.

Progressives

Reformers who believed overseas expansion matched their goal of reform at home.

Panama Canal Crisis

US intervention in Panama to suppress a revolt against Colombia, highlighting the need for a stronger navy.

Sanford Dole

Led the revolt against Queen Liliuokalani with US Marine support, resulting in the annexation of Hawaii.

Yellow Journalism

Sensationalized news that fueled war fever with exaggerated or false stories.

Anti-Imperialists

Opponents of US expansion, citing moral contradictions and racist fears.

Teller Amendment

US promise not to annex Cuba.

Platt Amendment

Allowed US intervention in Cuban affairs and established a US base at Guantanamo Bay.

Theodore Roosevelt

Domestic reformer and aggressive imperialist known for the Roosevelt Corollary and leading the Rough Riders.

Dollar Diplomacy

Tactic used by William Howard Taft promoting economic control disguised as aid.

Moral Diplomacy

Woodrow Wilson's foreign policy approach that emphasized moral principles.

Hay–Bunau-Varilla Treaty

Treaty that gave the US control over the canal zone in Panama.

Open Door Policy

Policy issued by John Hay aimed at equal trade access in China.

Boxer Rebellion

Anti-foreign uprising in China opposing Western influence.

United Fruit Company

Company that controlled approximately 90% of the global banana trade and dominated Central American politics.

Pure Food and Drug Act

1906 legislation ensuring honest labeling and safety of food products.

Meat Inspection Act

1906 law establishing federal inspection of meat.

Progressivism

Movement characterized by reform and contradictions, relating to imperialism and domestic issues.

USS Maine

Ship whose sinking triggered the Spanish-American War.

Spanish-American War

Conflict that resulted in the US gaining the Philippines, Guam, and Puerto Rico.