US Imperialism and the Spanish American War

Define imperialism.

• Strict non- involvement in the affairs of other nations

• Working with other countries to influence world affairs

• Intervening in other countries’ affairs to promote important national interests and/or to safeguard national security

• Extending power by acquiring territory around the globe or exploiting weaker nations to serve national interests

Why did the United States need to expand its trade into new markets after the Civil War?

• America had an excess of agricultural and industrial goods and needed foreign markets to purchase these American goods.

• America needed raw materials to industrialize like Europe had already done.

• America needed to expand its trade with countries who would sell America arms to prepare for future wars.

Why was a strong navy and foreign military bases important to U.S. interests at the turn of the 20th century? (Select TWO)

• Foreign military bases were important for American ships to refuel and gather fresh supplies.

• Europe was at war and the United States pledged to help Britain with a strong navy.

• A strong navy, or control of the seas, would be important during wartime.

• The US economy depended on manufacturing war ships.

How did the theory of Social Darwinism justify imperialism?

• Social Darwinism actually rejected the idea of imperialism on the basis that imperialism is immoral

• Social Darwinists felt that certain nations and races were superior to others and therefore were destined to rule over inferior peoples and cultures.

• Social Darwinists preached salvation to God through helping poorer countries.

Of the following statements, the one that best reflects an anti-imperialist attitude is ___

• "It is not necessary to own people to trade with them."

• "The expansion of our trade and commerce is the pressing problem."

• "Is there no nation wise enough, brave enough to aid this blood-smitten land?"

• "Fate has written our policy for us; the trade of the world must and shall be ours..."

When William Seward bought Alaska in 1967, people called it "Seward's Folly." How did the physical geography of Alaska change Americans' opinions about Seward's purchase?

• Alaska's many navigable river promoted the development of a strong inland transportation system.

• The economic potential of the region became obvious when gold was discovered in the Klondike, spurring a gold rush and increased settlement.

• The distance between the United States and Alaska allowed the region to develop a unique culture that attracted many artists and entrepreneurs.

How did the United States gain control of Hawaii?

• The United States Congress declared war against Hawaii.

• Hawaiian Queen Liluokalani signed a treaty with President Harrison.

• Disgruntled Hawaiian officials petitioned President Harrison to take control of Hawaii.

• U.S. Marines assisted rebels to overthrow the Hawaiian government.

How did the Spanish reaction to José Marti's war of independence influence American public opinion?

• Many Americans opposed Spain's tactics and expressed support for Cuban independence.

• Most Americans felt no sympathy for Marti's efforts to win independence but were outraged by the Spanish destruction of American property in Cuba.

• Most Americans felt Spain's reaction was reasonable and hoped the rebellion would be put down quickly.

What was included in the de Lôme letter?

• de Lôme's resignation as Spanish minister to the United States

• an apology to the U.S. government

• criticisms of President McKinley

• an incitement for war

Soon after this was destroyed, the United States declared war on Spain.

• McKinley's pride

• Panama Canal

• USS Maine

• USS Brooklyn