Discuss the rise of American imperialism.

Question

Discuss the rise of American imperialism. What were the roots of American overseas expansion? Into what areas did the United States first exert influence? Who opposed US expansion? What did the country do about this opposition? How successful was United States imperialism?

Answer 1

Late 19th and early 20th centuries American imperialism was caused by many factors: the need for new markets resulting from industrialization, strategic interests regarding the balance of global power, and confidence in the cultural superiority outpacing growth in the U.S. The wish for military bases and economic influence makes the U.S. extend its activity beyond borders.

The U.S. initially made its influence felt in places like Hawaii, where it toppled the monarchy and annexed the islands; in Latin America, especially with respect to the Spanish-American War, which paved the way for U.S. control over Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines. In addition, the Open Door Policy was pursued to acquire U.S. influence in China.

Most notably, opposition came from the Anti-Imperialist League, which claimed that imperialism ran contrary to American democratic values. People from these new territories also resisted, like the Filipinos, who fought American rule in the Philippine-American War.

Opposition to this was met in the U.S. with a combination of military force and political justification of the colonies, arguing that it was their duty to "civilize" these regions. In the face of this opposition, American imperialism was able to successfully extend the U.S. in terms of territory and influence but brought with it a rather heated controversial debate and battle both domestically and internationally.