Lecture Notes: Age of Empire, American Foreign Policy, 1890-1914

Key Topics:

Significance:
- Important like War of 1812 & French and Indian War.
- Impact on U.S. geographically, politically, and economically.
Causes:
- Unclear starting point; disagreement on war causes even during its time.
- USS Maine: Its destruction (uncertain cause) was a major trigger.
- Economic interest: U.S. business interests in Cuba benefited from low costs and exploitation.
Background:
- Spain had control over former colonies in South America and Caribbean.
- U.S. imperialism: Monroe Doctrine & Manifest Destiny; U.S. viewed as rightful ruler of Western Hemisphere.
War Dynamics:
- Fought mainly in Cuba due to economic interests.
- U.S. naval presence and military actions in Cuba following USS Maine incident.
- Expansionism: post-war acquisition of Guam, Puerto Rico, Philippines.
Outcome:
- Quick war: USS Maine to Treaty of Paris in 1898.
- U.S. considered a world power; Spanish colonies now under U.S. control.

Role in Spanish-American War:
- Boosted his public image with involvement; controversial accounts of his military leadership.
- Formed Rough Riders, gained fame at Battle of San Juan Hill.
Presidency & Policies:
- Advocated for strong naval power; "speak softly and carry a big stick."
- Roosevelt Corollary: Extension of Monroe Doctrine, U.S. as Western Hemisphere's police.
- Focused on Latin America; exploited political opportunities (e.g., Panama Canal).
Legacy:
- Expanded U.S. influence in Latin America, sidelined European powers.
- Controversial figure; remembered both for accomplishments and political strategies.

Expansion Post-War:
- Acquisition of territories: Puerto Rico, Guam, Philippines.
- Alaska, Hawaii, Virgin Islands, Swains Island also acquired in this era.
American Empire:
- Strategy of not granting statehood to imperial possessions.
- Purchase and control over strategic locations like Panama Canal.

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