Lecture on American Imperialism in the Late 19th Century
Context and Initial Motivations
Closure of the American Frontier: The frontier was considered closed, prompting the need for new frontiers to preserve American values like individualism and entrepreneurship.
European Imperialism: European powers were rapidly seizing colonies in Asia and Africa, raising American concerns.
Yellow Journalism: Sensationalist journalism that heightened public interest in imperial conquests, often with exaggerated or false stories.
Economic and Racial Rationales
Commercial Interests: American manufacturers needed new markets for growth, pushing for foreign expansion.
Racial Superiority: The idea of the "white man's burden" suggested that imperial rule would civilize darker-skinned people, as depicted in contemporary advertisements and cartoons.
Annexation of Hawaii
Missionary and Business Influence: American missionaries and sugar planters, known as the Big Five, dominated Hawaii.
Overthrow of Hawaiian Monarchy: In 1893, American businessmen overthrew the Hawaiian queen, leading to the U.S. annexation in 1898.
Cartoon Representation: The annexation was metaphorically depicted as a reluctant "shotgun wedding."
Interest in Cuba
Cuban Independence Movements: Cubans engaged in rebellions against Spanish rule since the 1860s, with harsh Spanish responses.
Role of Yellow Journalism: Sensationalist stories portrayed Cuba as needing liberation from Spanish rule.
USS Maine Explosion: The explosion in Havana Harbor in 1898 was blamed on Spanish treachery, escalating tensions.
Spanish-American War (1898)
U.S. Declaration of War: Following the USS Maine incident, McKinley pressured Congress to declare war on Spain.
Quick Victory: The war was short, with significant U.S. victories, including the capture of the Philippines and Cuba.
Theodore Roosevelt and the Rough Riders
Roosevelt's Role: Led a regiment called the Rough Riders, capturing media attention and becoming a national hero.
Exclusion of Black Soldiers: Roosevelt's account neglected the role of black soldiers, who were crucial in battles.
Outcomes
Treaty and Acquisitions: The U.S. gained control of Cuba, the Philippines, Puerto Rico, and Guam.
Rise of Roosevelt: His war exploits paved the way for a successful political career, leading to his vice presidency.
Reflections on Imperialism
Complications of Imperial Rule: The U.S. quickly realized the complexities and challenges of managing an empire.