Notes on American Expansion and World War I

Rise and Expansion of American Power

Change in U.S. role globally impacted by Manifest Destiny and WWI.

Key Players

Admiral Mahan: Emphasized need for controlling the Pacific.

Theodore Roosevelt: Advocated for strong military presence.

Woodrow Wilson: Aimed to make the world safe for democracy.

Roots of Imperialism

Context of Manifest Destiny and cultural superiority.

Competition with European powers and preservation of slavery.

Corporate Power during Imperialism

Overproduction fears encouraged foreign market expansion.

Annexation of Hawaii and control over Pacific islands to benefit American businesses.

Role of Racism

Rationalized intervention in the guise of civilizing inferior races.

Influential beliefs framed non-Western societies as in need of control.

Spanish-American War (1898)

Triggered by Cuban revolt against Spain and U.S. Maine explosion.

Treaty of Paris resulted in U.S. acquiring territories like the Philippines and Puerto Rico.

Opposition to Imperialism

Figures like Andrew Carnegie criticized annexation of the Philippines.

Anti-imperialists argued against U.S. moral superiority and expansionist policies.

Panama Canal

U.S. supported Panama’s revolt against Colombia for canal zone.

World War I and U.S. Involvement

Initial desire for neutrality disrupted by events like Lusitania sinking and Zimmerman Telegram.

Political, Social, and Economic Changes at Home

Government control expanded; 1 million women entered workforce.

Civil liberties scrutinized—Espionage Act enforced against dissenters.

War Abroad and Armistice

U.S. troops played pivotal roles, culminating in decisive victories, leading to armistice on November 11, 1918.

Treaty of Versailles and its Consequences

Wilson’s 14 Points aimed for lasting peace, but faced opposition; treaty ultimately failed in the Senate.

Impact of War

Death toll of 9 million soldiers; economic hardships post-war led to public discontent.

Progressive ideas influenced post-war policies, but conservatism returned shortly thereafter.