American Imperialism

Definition

American imperialism refers to the policy and practice of the United States extending its influence and control over other nations and territories, particularly during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This expansion was often justified by a belief in American exceptionalism and a desire for economic growth, strategic military positioning, and cultural influence. The construction of the Panama Canal exemplifies how American imperialism shaped geopolitical dynamics in Latin America and beyond.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The U.S. pursued American imperialism through military intervention, economic dominance, and political influence, particularly in Latin America and the Caribbean.
2. The Panama Canal, completed in 1914, was strategically important for connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans and solidifying U.S. control over maritime trade routes.
3. American imperialism was often justified by the belief in 'Manifest Destiny,' which held that it was America's destiny to expand its territory and influence across North America and beyond.
4. The U.S. engaged in various interventions throughout Central America and the Caribbean during this period, leading to long-lasting political ramifications in those regions.
5. Opposition to American imperialism grew, with critiques highlighting its impact on sovereignty and self-determination for affected nations, leading to debates about morality and ethics in foreign policy.

Review Questions

• How did the construction of the Panama Canal reflect American imperialist goals?
  • The construction of the Panama Canal was a direct manifestation of American imperialism as it represented a strategic effort to enhance U.S. military and economic power. By controlling this vital waterway, the U.S. could facilitate faster maritime trade between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, significantly bolstering its influence in global commerce. Additionally, it allowed for quicker military deployment, showcasing how infrastructure projects were intertwined with imperial ambitions.
• Evaluate the implications of the Roosevelt Corollary on U.S.-Latin American relations during the age of American imperialism.
  • The Roosevelt Corollary had profound implications for U.S.-Latin American relations as it effectively established a precedent for American intervention in the internal affairs of Latin American countries. This policy suggested that the U.S. would act as a regional police power to maintain order and stability, often justifying interventions under the guise of protecting democracy. As a result, it fostered resentment among Latin American nations, who viewed these actions as infringements on their sovereignty.
• Critically analyze how American imperialism during the late 19th century shaped modern geopolitical relations in Latin America.
  • American imperialism during the late 19th century laid the groundwork for contemporary geopolitical relations in Latin America through its legacy of interventionism and economic dominance. The establishment of policies like the Monroe Doctrine and Roosevelt Corollary created an environment where U.S. interests often took precedence over local governance and autonomy. This dynamic has led to ongoing tensions and complexities in diplomatic relations, where past interventions continue to influence perceptions of American involvement in Latin America today.

Related terms

Monroe Doctrine: A U.S. policy established in 1823 that opposed European colonialism in the Americas and asserted that any intervention by external powers in the politics of the Americas would be viewed as a potential threat to the U.S.

Spanish-American War: A conflict in 1898 between Spain and the United States that resulted in the U.S. acquiring territories such as Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines, significantly expanding its imperial reach.

Roosevelt Corollary: An extension of the Monroe Doctrine articulated by President Theodore Roosevelt, stating that the U.S. could intervene in Latin American countries to stabilize them if they were unable to maintain order themselves.