American Imperialism Lecture Notes

Introduction to American Imperialism

• Definition of imperialism: A policy of extending a country's power and influence through diplomacy or military force.
• Explanation of how American imperialism was justified and rationalized.

Historical Context

• Post-Civil War America and the need for new markets.
• The influence of industrialization and the economic boom on foreign policy.
• The role of Manifest Destiny in shaping expansionist policies.

Key Events and Figures

• Spanish-American War (1898):
  • Key figures: President William McKinley, Theodore Roosevelt.
  • Outcomes: The Treaty of Paris, acquisition of territories (Puerto Rico, Guam, Philippines).
• Annexation of Hawaii (1898):
  • Overthrow of Queen Liliuokalani.
  • Strategic and economic implications for the U.S.
• Theodore Roosevelt's Policies:
  • Roosevelt Corollary to the Monroe Doctrine.
  • Big Stick Diplomacy.

Economic Motivations

• Need for new markets and raw materials.
• Influence of prominent businessmen and their interests.

Ideological Motivations

• Concept of the "White Man's Burden" and racial superiority.
• Spread of Christianity and Western values.

Anti-Imperialism

• Key figures and arguments against imperialism:
  • Mark Twain, Andrew Carnegie.
  • Concerns about ethics and democracy.

Impact and Legacy

• Long-term political and cultural impacts on acquired territories.
• Legacy of American imperialism in modern foreign policy.

Conclusion

• Summary of how imperialism shaped U.S. history and global standing.
• Reflection on the ongoing effects of these policies today.