“America’s Empire of Color”

Introduction to America's Imperialist Ambitions

• The problem of the color line and white political dominance was not limited to the U.S.

• In the late 19th century, the U.S. pursued imperialist ambitions, aligning with global trends.

• European colonialism had established control over Africa and Asia, which provided raw materials and markets for industrialized nations.

• American imperialism was driven by economic interests and geopolitical strategy.

Vision of Domination

• The U.S. sought to dominate areas inhabited by people of color, particularly those of African descent.

• Imperialism was influenced by observing European powers like France, Britain, Belgium, Italy, and Germany, and their dealings in Africa.

• Figures such as missionary David Livingstone and businessman Cecil Rhodes highlighted Africa's resource wealth through sensational media portrayal.

• The Berlin Conference (1884-1885) partitioned Africa among European powers, allowing the U.S. to observe and develop its own imperial strategies.

Economic Expansion and Industrialization

• Late 19th century saw significant U.S. industrial growth necessitating new markets and resources.

• Industrialists sought profitable investment opportunities, leading to a surge in exports and foreign investments.

• The U.S. witnessed increased immigration and the filling of western lands, prompting a desire for further territorial expansion.

Hawaii's Annexation

• American traders turned their sights on Hawaii, recognized for its strategic military and economic value.

• In 1875, trade agreements favored American products, and in 1884, the U.S. secured Pearl Harbor as a naval base.

• By 1890, U.S. investments in Hawaiian plantations exceeded $25 million, despite cultural differences.

• In 1898, Congress annexed Hawaii, influenced by domestic and strategic interests.

Influence in the Caribbean and Latin America

• The U.S. extended its imperialism into the Caribbean, notably targeting Cuba and Puerto Rico amidst Spain's decline.

• Cuba, with repeated revolts against Spanish rule, saw growing U.S. economic interests, with American investments exceeding $50 million by 1890.

• The U.S. became alarmed during the Cuban War of Independence due to damage to American properties, leading to increased intervention.

The Spanish-American War

• The U.S. intervention was spurred by concerns for American investments and reports of brutal Spanish responses under General Valeriano Weyler.

• The American battleship Maine exploded in Havana Harbor, resulting in significant loss of life and precipitating the war with Spain.

• African Americans played significant roles in the war; many enlisted to fight for independence alongside Cubans.

• However, some African Americans opposed imperialism, fearing a racial caste system similar to that in the U.S.

African Americans in the War Effort

• African Americans served valiantly, notably within the 9th and 10th cavalry regiments, often called Buffalo Soldiers.

• Their contributions were critical at battles like San Juan Hill, where they assisted in decisive actions against the Spaniards.

• Despite their bravery, African American troops faced discrimination, segregation, and hostility within military ranks.

• Many sought to demonstrate their patriotism despite the realities of Jim Crow laws and racial inequalities.

The Aftermath of the War and Imperial Conquest

• U.S. victories led to a stronger imperial presence, acquiring Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines through the Treaty of Paris.

• Despite being viewed as an imperial power, U.S. policies restricted Puerto Ricans' political freedoms, reflecting racial biases.

• In the Philippines, many African American troops sympathized with Filipinos, leading to some joining the independence movement.

Reactions from the African American Community

• Prominent African Americans viewed the imperial conquests as opportunities for racial uplift and education, urging investments in colonies.

• Simultaneously, many black soldiers recognized the contradictions in fighting for freedom overseas while being oppressed at home.

Impact on Puerto Rico and Other Territories

• The imposition of an American governance structure in Puerto Rico echoed domestic racial discrimination.

• Economic conditions worsened, highlighting the need for reform as wealth concentrated among American investors.

Conclusion: The Color Problem and Imperialism

• The imperial expansion of the U.S. was complicated by its domestic racial issues, with significant African American contributions that exposed deeper contradictions.

• The defined issue of race relations was expanded beyond U.S. borders, revealing a broader global context.

• W.E.B. Du Bois articulated that race relations would define the 20th century, encompassing dilemmas faced by peoples of color globally.