DEBATES About AMERICAN IMPERIALISM [APUSH Unit 7 Topic 2] Period 7: 1898-1945

Overview of American Imperialism (1898-1945)

• This unit covers America’s move into imperial expansion during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, specifically between 1898 and 1945.

Understanding Imperialism

• Definition: Imperialism refers to the expansion of a nation's political, economic, and military influence over other countries, signifying the growth of empire.

• Misconceptions: The idea that America is not an empire is challenged by historical events marking its imperial ventures.

The Beginning of American Imperialism

• Purchase of Alaska (1867):

  • Afforded by Secretary of State William Seward for $7.2 million amid competing claims from Russia and Great Britain.

  • Initially viewed as a mistake (Seward’s Folly) until the discovery of gold in 1898 increased its value.

  • Marks the first step towards American imperialism, laying the groundwork for future territorial acquisitions.

• Manifest Destiny and Expansionism:

  • Territorial expansion was ingrained in American ideology throughout the 19th century, with the closing of the frontier leading to imperial ambitions abroad.

Debates on Imperialism

• Two major factions emerged: Imperialists vs. Anti-Imperialists.

Imperialists' Arguments

1. Economic Motivations:

   • Desire for valuables and raw materials akin to those in Alaska, prompting a quest for resources in other territories.

   • Need for new markets to sell American goods (manufactured and agricultural).

2. Justification through Social Darwinism:

   • The belief that the fittest societies would inevitably dominate the weaker ones, suggesting a moral right to imperialism.

   • Imperial expansion was viewed as a way for America to assert itself alongside established European powers.

3. Racial Justifications:

   • Josiah Strong's

   • Our Country: Its Possible Future and Present Crisis promoted the superiority of the white Anglo-Saxon race, advocating expansion as a Christian duty to civilize others.

4. Naval Power and Alfred Thayer Mahan:

   • Mahan’s book The Influence of Sea Power on History emphasized the need for a strong navy to secure foreign markets.

   • Led to the construction of a new steel navy and the quest for strategic territories to support naval operations.

Anti-Imperialists' Arguments

1. Principle of Self-Determination:

   • Nations should independently determine their governance and laws, recalling the arguments used by the Founding Fathers against British rule.

   • Concerns that imperialism would deprive colonized people of their right to decide their fate.

2. Historical Isolationism:

   • Citing George Washington’s farewell address, anti-imperialists advocated for a continuation of America’s tradition of avoiding foreign entanglements.

   • Fear of being pulled into wars and disputes due to imperial involvement.

3. Constitutional Rights Debate:

   • The question, "Does the Constitution follow the flag?" focused on whether newly acquired territories would extend U.S. citizenship and rights to their inhabitants.

   • Anti-imperialists sought to highlight the potential racial injustices involved in granting citizenship to non-white populations.

Conclusion

• Understanding American imperialism during this period is critical for grasping the broader themes of national identity, economic motivations, and global power dynamics in U.S. history.