William McKinley on American Expansionism (1903)

Context

• Spanish-American War: The United States took control of the Philippines following the Spanish surrender.
• Challenge: Faced an anti-American insurgency in the Philippines.

McKinley's Reflections

• Initial Reluctance: McKinley did not initially desire the Philippines.
• Strategic Decisions: Ordered Dewey to capture or destroy the Spanish fleet to prevent potential attacks on the U.S.

Dilemma of the Philippines

• Uncertainty: McKinley was uncertain about how to proceed with the Philippines after their acquisition.
• Consultation: Sought advice from both Democrats and Republicans, but found little guidance.
• Personal Struggle: Spent nights contemplating and praying for guidance.

Decision-Making Process

1. Reject Return to Spain: Considered giving back to Spain as cowardly and dishonorable.
2. Avoid Transfer to France/Germany: Feared transferring control to commercial rivals would be bad business and discreditable.
3. Concerns About Self-Governance: Believed the Filipinos were unfit for self-governance, fearing anarchy and misrule.
4. Final Decision: Opted to retain all the islands, with a mission to educate, uplift, civilize, and Christianize the Filipinos.

Implementation

• Integration: Decided to include the Philippines on the U.S. map.
• Presidential Commitment: Committed to keeping the Philippines part of the U.S. during his presidency.

Source

• Interview by General James Rusling, published in The Christian Advocate, January 1903.
• Reprinted in Charles Sumner Olcott's The Life of William McKinley, Volume 2.