US Imperialism

Imperialism

A policy of extending a country's power and influence through diplomacy or military force.

Political Motives

Gaining more power and prestige through conquering new land. Fueled by Nationalism or extreme pride in the country.

Spanish-American War (1898)

Conflict between the U.S. and Spain that began the rise of the U.S. as a world power. The U.S. gained possession of Cuba, Guam, Puerto Rico, and the Philippines as a result.

USS Maine

Ship that explodes off the coast of Cuba in Havana harbor and helps contribute to the start of the Spanish-American War

Yellow Journalism

Journalism that exploits, distorts, or exaggerates the news to create sensations and attract readers

President McKinley

the president during the Spanish American War; asked congress to go to war in Cuba, later was shot and killed

Panama Canal

a ship canal 40 miles long across the Isthmus of Panama built by the United States (1904-1914)

Sensationalized

exaggerated

Havana, Cuba

The capital of Cuba

Rough Riders

Volunteer regiment of US Cavalry led by Teddy Roosevelt during the Spanish American War

Guantanamo Bay

Military base granted to the US in Cuba which is now used as a prison

Raw Materials

Unprocessed natural products used in production to make money

Economic Motives

desire to make money

to expand and control foreign trade

to create new markets for products

to acquire raw materials and cheap labor

to compete for investments and resources

Military motives

To claim territory to create bases to protect the empire

to exercise military force

to use as a refuel and resupply area

to boost national pride and security

Ideological motives

Belief that people in imperialized countries need to be "civilized" and taught the "proper" way to live. Usually involves religious conversions

Racial motives

The belief that other races are inferior based on genetic traits. Allows the US to justify their takeover of other territories.

Exploratory motives

desire to explore "unknown", conduct scientific research and medical searches, adventure/investigate unknown lands & culture