Study Notes on Albert Beveridge's Defense of U.S. Imperialism

Source: Congressional Record (56th Congress, 1st Session, pages 704-712)
Context: Albert Beveridge's speech expressing the justification for U.S. imperialism, particularly the annexation and governance of the Philippines.

The Philippines are stated to be permanently part of the United States, referred to as "territory belonging to the United States" according to the Constitution.
Beveridge asserts that the U.S. will not retreat from its duty regarding the Philippines and emphasizes the importance of American responsibility in the region.

China's Markets:
- Beveridge highlights China as a market that is immensely valuable and notes that the Philippines position the U.S. as a neighbor to these markets.
- Markets in China are depicted as "illimitable," providing a significant trade opportunity for the U.S.
Importance of the Pacific Ocean:
- The Pacific is portrayed as the "ocean of the commerce of the future," critical for trade and commerce.
- The strategic significance of the Philippines is emphasized as a base for American commercial and military power in Asia.

The Philippines are described as a vital strategic position for naval and military operations in the eastern seas.
- Beveridge refers to the islands as offering one of the three great ocean possessions of the globe.
- This location allows the U.S. to convene closer to other significant territories such as India and China.

Beveridge argues that the Filipino people are incapable of self-governance due to their perceived racial and cultural characteristics.
- He implies that their experience under Spanish rule has ingrained a sense of incompetence regarding self-governance.
- The speech invokes a hierarchy of races and suggests that only "Anglo-Saxon" people possess the capability for self-governance.
Comparison to Other Peoples:
- He makes a derogatory analogy comparing the common people of the Philippines to "children playing at men’s work" and claims their work ethic is inadequate.
- Describes the Filipinos as "incurably indolent" and lacking the industrious nature required for significant economic development.

Divine Mission of America:
- Beveridge claims that America has a divine purpose, positioning itself as a "trustee of the world’s progress" and a leader in civilizing efforts globally.
- He cites providence as a force guiding people to lead the world towards civilization and order, suggesting that failing to take on the role would lead to chaos and barbarism.

Beveridge argues against the notion that historical documents like the Declaration of Independence apply to the governance of territories such as the Philippines.
- He stresses that the founding documents were created by and for self-governing peoples and that the current circumstances differ significantly.
Proclamations of constitutional power to govern territories like the Philippines are compared to the governance of regions like Florida, Louisiana, and Alaska.
- He questions whether geographical distance impacts constitutional authority and grounds his argument in a broader interpretation of American destiny.

Beveridge's speech concludes with a bold declaration of America's role as a chosen nation tasked with leading the world toward progress and civility.
- He invokes a biblical reference about faithfulness and responsibility, framing America's imperial ambitions as a noble and profound duty that ultimately brings both profit and glory.

Fink, Leon, ed. "Major Problems in the Gilded Age and the Progressive Era." New York: Houghton Mifflin Co., 2001.