American Imperialism and the Progressive Era

Annexation of Hawaii

  • Late 19th century, Hawaii became economically and strategically important for the U.S.
  • Hawaiian economy dominated by American-controlled sugar plantations.

The Bayonet Constitution (1887)

  • White business elites forced King Kalākaua to sign, stripping the monarchy's power.
  • Limited voting rights to wealthy landowners, disenfranchising most native Hawaiians.

Transition of Power

  • Queen Liliʻuokalani sought to restore power but was met with opposition from American business interests.

Dole Fruit Coup (1893)

  • Coup led by Sanford B. Dole, supported by U.S. officials, forced the Queen to abdicate.

The Debate Over Annexation

  • President Cleveland opposed annexation, called coup an unjust overthrow.
  • Hawaii remained a republic under Dole until changes in leadership.

Annexation (1898)

  • Under McKinley, U.S. annexed Hawaii for military strategic interests post-Spanish-American War.
  • Newlands Resolution passed annexing Hawaii without formal treaty.

New Imperialism Methods of Conquest

  • Colony: Controlled internally by foreign power.
  • Protectorate: Own internal government but controlled by outside power.
  • Sphere of Influence: Exclusive trading rights claimed by outside power.

Pro-Imperialist Arguments

  • Colonies provide resources and strategic routes; needed to remain globally relevant.
  • Justified by Social Darwinism, viewing imperialism as a natural hierarchy.

Anti-Imperialist Arguments

  • Contradicted founding principles of liberty and self-determination.
  • Concerns over entanglement in foreign conflicts and domestic issues.

Cuban War of Independence (1895–1898)

  • U.S. had economic interests in Cuba; sympathized with Cuban rebels.

The De Lome Letter

  • Spanish ambassador criticized President McKinley, increasing tensions.

Yellow Journalism

  • Sensationalized reporting fueled public support for intervention.

USS Maine Explosion (1898)

  • Affected American public opinion; led to the declaration of war against Spain.

Spanish-American War Outcomes

  • Rapid U.S. victory; debates on annexations ensued.
  • U.S. emerged as a colonial power, territorial gains included Philippines, Guam, Puerto Rico.

The Philippines: Aftermath

  • Filipino resistance during the Philippine-American War resulted in significant civilian casualties.
  • U.S. influence led to Filipino citizens being treated as second-class.

Cuban Complications

  • Platt Amendment allowed U.S. intervention in Cuba, creating long-term resentment.

Progressive Era Overview (1890-1920)

  • Meant to address issues from industrialization, urbanization, and social injustice.

Theodore Roosevelt's Contributions

  • Mediated the Coal Strike of 1902, promoting fair worker-owner negotiations.
  • Square Deal aimed for fairness between capitalists and laborers.
  • Trust-busting and food/drug regulation initiatives were significant reforms.

Wilson and Progressivism

  • Wilson's reforms included lowering tariffs and creating the Federal Reserve.
  • Advocated for democratic values abroad but implemented segregation domestically.

1912 Election

  • Split in Republican Party; Wilson's victory led to significant reforms and foreign policies focused on democratic promotion.

America in WWI

  • Declared war on Germany after escalating tensions and sinking of ships (Lusitania, Zimmerman Telegram).
  • Total war efforts mobilized economy, leading to labor shifts and women gaining job opportunities.
  • Propaganda campaigns shaped public opinion, and U.S. military contributions were pivotal in turning the tide of the war.

Armistice

  • Signed on November 11, 1918, ending one of the deadliest conflicts in history.