US History: Key Terms and Policies

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Imperialism

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A policy of extending a country's power and influence through diplomacy or military force.

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Foreign policy

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A government's strategy in dealing with other nations. Examples include the Monroe Doctrine and Big Stick Diplomacy.

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Domestic Policy

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Administrative decisions that are directly related to all issues and activity within a nation's borders. Examples include economic policies and social welfare programs.

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Open Door Notes

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A series of policy statements issued by the United States in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, advocating for equal trading rights in China.

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Boxer Rebellion

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An anti-foreign, anti-colonial uprising in China between 1899 and 1901, which was eventually suppressed by an international coalition.

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Monroe Doctrine

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A United States policy, originated by President James Monroe in 1823, which opposed European colonialism in the Americas.

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Roosevelt Corollary

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An extension of the Monroe Doctrine by President Theodore Roosevelt, asserting the right of the United States to intervene in Latin America to preserve law and order.

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Big Stick Diplomacy

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A policy of negotiating peacefully while simultaneously threatening with the 'big stick', or the military, associated with President Theodore Roosevelt.

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Roosevelt and the Panama Canal

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When negotiations with Colombia failed, Roosevelt worked to support a Panamanian revolution. He sent marines and warships to secure the territory, and a treaty was signed granting the U.S. control of the canal zone. This became a symbol of American imperial power.

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Dollar Diplomacy

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involved the United States lending money to foreign countries in exchange for the ability to influence their governments. Private American businesses also invested in foreign countries to gain the right to intervene in their policies.