American Imperialism: 1898-1945

American Imperialism (1898-1945)

Introduction

  • Unit 7 of the AP U.S. History curriculum covers the period from 1898 to 1945, starting with American imperial expansion.

Thesis

  • Explain the similarities and differences in attitudes about the nation’s proper role in the world.

What is Imperialism?

  • Imperialism is the expansion of a country’s political, economic, and military influence over other countries.

Early Expansion: Alaska

  • In 1867, the U.S. purchased Alaska from Russia for 7.2 million under Secretary of State William Seward.
  • Initially dubbed "Seward’s Folly" due to its perceived lack of value.
  • The discovery of gold in 1898 increased its desirability.
  • Alaska was a territory with no land connection to the United States, marking an imperialistic expansion.

Westward Expansion

  • Territorial expansion was part of American identity in the 19th century.
  • Frederick Jackson Turner's concern over the closing of the frontier led to the consideration of overseas expansion.

Debate Over Imperial Expansion

  • A fierce debate emerged between imperialists and anti-imperialists.

Arguments for Imperialism

  • Economic Factors:
    • Desire for access to raw materials found in new territories.
    • Securing new markets for American goods.
  • Social Darwinism:
    • Application of "survival of the fittest" to international politics and economics.
    • American expansion seen as a way to compete on the global stage.
  • European Example:
    • European nations had been expanding their empires for centuries, and America didn't want to be a second-class nation.
  • Racial Motivations:
    • Reverend Josiah Strong’s book, "Our Country: It’s Possible Future and Present Crisis," (1885), argued for Anglo-Saxon superiority.
    • Belief in the duty of the white race to spread Christianity and Western civilization.
  • Naval Power:
    • Alfred Thayer Mahan’s "The Influence of Sea Power on History" (1890) argued that a strong navy was essential for global power.
    • Congress approved the construction of a new steel fleet of ships.
    • The need for strategic territories to support the navy led to the acquisition of Pacific and Caribbean territories for coaling and supplies.

Arguments Against Imperialism

  • Self-Determination:
    • Belief that nations should have the right to self-determination.
    • Taking over less-powerful countries would rob them of this right.
  • Isolationism:
    • Advocated for avoiding foreign entanglements, referencing George Washington’s farewell address.
    • Involvement in global affairs could lead to unwanted wars and economic disputes.
  • Racial Arguments:
    • Debated whether the Constitution followed the flag.
    • Concern about granting citizenship and rights to people of color in newly acquired territories.