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