Key Voacb

Jingoism

Extreme nationalism characterized by aggressive foreign policy and a willingness to use force to achieve national goals.

Annexation

The act of adding a territory to an existing country, often without the consent of the people in the territory.

Social Darwinism

The application of Darwin’s theory of natural selection to human societies, used to justify imperialism by claiming stronger nations were destined to dominate weaker ones.

Rough Riders

A volunteer cavalry unit led by Theodore Roosevelt during the Spanish-American War, famous for their charge up San Juan Hill.

Open Door Policy

A U.S. policy advocating equal trading rights for all nations in China and opposing the division of China into exclusive spheres of influence.

Yellow Journalism

Sensationalized and exaggerated news reporting aimed at attracting readers and influencing public opinion, often contributing to support for imperialist policies.

Boxer Rebellion

An international coalition, including U.S. forces, that suppressed a 1900 uprising in China against foreign influence.

Sphere of Influence

A region where one country has significant cultural, economic, or political influence, often excluding other powers.

Panama Canal

A man-made waterway built by the U.S. connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans to facilitate trade and military movement.

Dollar Diplomacy

A U.S. foreign policy under President Taft that used economic investments and loans to extend influence in Latin America and Asia.