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Overview of American Imperialism History

May 16, 2025

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.