U.S. Imperialism Vocabulary

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Imperialism

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A policy in which a stronger nation extends its power by taking over weaker territories.

Example: The U.S. taking control of the Philippines after the Spanish-American War.

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Expansionism

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The policy of expanding a nation's territory or influence beyond its borders.

Example: The U.S. acquiring Alaska and Hawaii.

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Spanish-American War

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A 1898 conflict between the U.S. and Spain, resulting in U.S. control of Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines.

Example: “Remember the Maine!” became a rallying cry after a U.S. ship exploded in Havana Harbor.

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Yellow Press / Yellow Journalism

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Sensationalized or exaggerated news stories meant to attract readers and influence public opinion.

Example: Newspapers blamed Spain for the sinking of the USS Maine without solid evidence.

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Teller Amendment

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A 1898 statement declaring that the U.S. would not take permanent control of Cuba. Example: Congress used it to assure Cuba’s independence after helping them fight Spain.

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Platt Amendment

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Gave the U.S. the right to intervene in Cuban affairs and control Guantanamo Bay. Example: The U.S. used it to justify involvement in Cuban politics for decades.

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Open Door Policy

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A U.S. policy that allowed all nations to trade freely with China.

Example: Prevented any single country from taking full control of Chinese trade.

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Panama Canal

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A man-made waterway connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, completed in 1914.

Example: Shortened trade routes and boosted U.S. global power.

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Roosevelt Corollary

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Addition to the Monroe Doctrine stating that the U.S. could intervene in Latin America to maintain order.

Example: The U.S. sent troops to the Dominican Republic to protect American investments.

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Big Stick Policy

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President Theodore Roosevelt’s foreign policy of using diplomacy backed by military strength.

Example: “Speak softly and carry a big stick.” Used during the building of the Panama Canal.