American Imperialism America Emerges as a World Power: 1890 – 1917 November 30, 2012
What is Imperialism? � Imperialism: A policy by which strong
nations exert their political, military, and economic control over weaker territories.
American Imperialism � During the late 1800s and early 1900s, Americans
wanted to become more of a world power � Traditionally America was isolationist � Now expanding overseas
Why did America expand? � Economic benefits � Military strength � Believe in national superiority
First Steps Towards World Power
� 1867: Purchase of Alaska from Russia
� 1898: Annexation of Hawaii
� 1898: Spanish-American War begins
Spanish-American War
� Why war? � American interests
in Cuba (Spanish colony)
� Cuban rebellion � Yellow Press � Explosion of the
Maine
Sinking of the Maine in Cuba
Spanish-American War � Dewey conquers Spain in Philippines � American troops land in Cuba
� First time American Army fights in a long time � Roosevelt’s Rough Riders help
Effects of Spanish-American War � Treaty of Paris
� Spain gives up Cuba, Puerto Rico, Guam � America buys Philippines for $20 million
� Americans debate imperialism � America assumes new role in the world
U.S. and Asia � America wanted to increase influence in
Asia—compete with Europe � Guerilla warfare in Philippines � U.S. tries to exert influence in China � Rising tension with Japan
What’s so important about Imperialism? � Increased America’s role
in the world � This was especially
important with World War I coming
� Led to more conflict � Varying opinions about
whether it’s a good thing or a bad thing � Think about American
opinion vs. opinion of places they colonized