American Imperialism and the Progressive Era

Imperialism

A policy in which a country extends its power through political control, economic domination, or territorial expansion.

The Three G's

God (spread Christianity), Glory (national pride and military power), and Gold (resources and profits), which along with Social Darwinism and the White Man's Burden were used to justify imperialism.

Alfred Thayer Mahan

A naval strategist who argued that a powerful navy was essential for national greatness, supporting naval expansion, overseas bases, and an interoceanic canal.

William Seward

Secretary of State who purchased Alaska from Russia in $1867$ for $\$7.2\text{ million}$, an acquisition critics called Seward's Folly.

Pan-Americanism

A policy promoted by James G. Blaine to foster stronger trade, diplomacy, and economic cooperation among nations in the Americas.

Queen Liliuokalani

Monarch of Hawaii who was overthrown in $1893$ by American business interests prior to the United States annexing Hawaii in $1898$.

Yellow Journalism

Sensationalized reporting that exaggerated Spanish cruelty in Cuba to stir public support for war.