Anti-imperialist+readings

Platform of the American Anti-Imperialist League (October 18, 1899)

• Opposition to Imperialism

  • The policy of imperialism is seen as hostile to liberty and leads to militarism.

  • Healing the breach in ideals thought to be upheld by Washington and Lincoln regarding liberty for all men, regardless of race.

  • Governments derive just powers from the consent of the governed; subjugation by any nation is considered aggression.

• Call for Independence of the Philippines

  • A cessation of the war against liberty initiated by Spain and perpetuated by the United States is demanded.

  • Congress should recognize the Filipinos' right to independence.

• Critique of the Doctrine of International Law

  • The United States has historically opposed the idea that the strong can subjugate the weak (imperialism).

  • The existence of self-government precludes the acceptance of sovereignty over unwilling peoples.

• Affirmation of Self-Government

  • Reference to Abraham Lincoln's assertion that true governance requires consent.

  • Those denying freedom to others publicly jeopardize their chance for their own freedom.

• Appeal for Unity

  • Invitation to cooperate among individuals loyal to the Declaration of Independence and Constitution.

Lewis H. Douglass on Black Opposition to McKinley (November 17, 1899)

• Skepticism of McKinley’s Promises

  • Critiques McKinley’s assurances to Filipinos under American sovereignty as rhetorical and lacking genuine conviction.

  • Acknowledgment of racial prejudice among soldiers fighting in the Philippines.

• Treatment of Black Soldiers

  • Notes the prevailing racism in the U.S., affecting the treatment of Black soldiers.

  • Cites examples of the administration yielding to racial prejudices.

• Hypocrisy in Promises of Freedom

  • Questions the sincerity of claims made regarding giving Filipinos liberty while ignoring injustices against Black citizens at home.

A.M.E. Church's Position on Military Enlistment (May 1, 1899)

• Advisory against Joining the Army

  • Ministers advocate that Black men should not enlist in the U.S. Army due to systemic racism.

  • Emphasizes that the government is essentially a 'white man's government.'

• Critique of National Identity

  • Argues that the flag represents liberty for white citizens but is a ‘worthless rag’ for Black individuals who suffer discrimination.

• Consequences of Enlistment

  • The violent and hostile environment faced by Black soldiers is outlined, including potential lynching.

  • Urges young Black men to prioritize their dignity and lives over service in a prejudiced military.

Open Letter to President McKinley by Colored People of Massachusetts (October 3, 1899)

• Demands for Equal Rights

  • Asserts their rights as American citizens to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

  • Criticizes the government's inaction against violence and injustice faced by Black citizens.

• Call for Federal Intervention

  • Questions why the federal government responds to foreign injustices (Cuba) while ignoring domestic abuses.

  • Calls for equality and protection that should be extended equally to Black citizens as is afforded to foreign peoples.

• Conditions of Injustice

  • Highlights the chronic violence and discrimination faced by Black Americans,

  • Asserts that the suffering of Black Americans is as significant as that faced by foreign populations, meriting similar humanitarian concern.