In the latter 1800’s the US had forever changed into a greater nation. Cities arose, cultures and traditions began and land expansion increased nationalism and strengthened the country’s national identity. This change was imperialism ... Imperialism revolutionized the life of Americans. The Americans suddenly became exceptionally nationalistic and believed their duty was to protect their politics, economy and social comfort. They sought and annexed new lands, resources and reinforced their own philosophy on America. America took example of the superior nations and started conquering smaller-undeveloped nations and took advantage of their resources but also provided military reinforcements. Their were many causes to imperialism change such as Economic, Nationalistic, military and humanitarian factors.
The industrial growth in Europe increased the need for natural resources such as rubber and petroleum and those resources came from smaller undeveloped countries. Additionally, manufacturing nations needed new markets to sell their manufacturing goods. Consequently, Americans conquered those smaller nations and benefited from their raw materials, resources and manufacturing goods but also provided education, healthcare and security for them. Thus, humanitarian and religion goals encouraged imperialists, doctors, missionaries, and colonial officers to believe their duty was to spread the blessings of the west civilizations including laws, medicines and Christian religions.
The rise of nationalism increased the competition between European nations for larger empires .The increase of nationalism caused European nations to want to protect their nation better. Thanks to the military technology, European armies and with their weapons, they became more powerful and superior to African and Asian armies. However, growing navies required bases and sources around the world for fuel and supplies.
Globalization was one of the main advantages imperialism brought along. Laborers whose industries were powerful but often caused economic depressions convinced the government to globalize their markets since their surplus products often became waste. By contributing to international affair, this surplus food was sold or traded and brought profit causing economic growth. The US was now balanced with other big empires; they had equal power and America was now considered part of the high class superior countries.
However, these international connections weren’t always advantageous. Cubans threatened to destroy the sugar plantations if the Americans didn’t help in their rebellion against Spain. The government refused to participate because they couldn’t finance this nor could they handle extra colonial responsibilities. Moreover, German, Britanic and American leaders argued because of the treaty with Samoa. They compromised a three-way protectorate. Great Britain retired but the US and Germany remained in control.
Imperialists were debating what foreign policy would best serve the US, they gave a variety of reasons Americans should involve in international affairs. The book is a pretty limited source, it does not give specific examples but I assume one of the arguments might have been that involving in international affairs would help expand theirs markets, and to import/export their goods so economywise, it would benefit them. Also, America was becoming a very competitive nation so Americans believed imperialism was more a celebration than a method since it expanded their markets.
On the other side, Anti- imperialists said the US should avoid foreign entanglements just like they always have. They also thought it was a denial to their “liberty for all” foundations. They also feared imperialism would lead to rebellions.
To conclude, the advantages did outweigh the disadvantages of imperialism. I believe this because without this revolutionary change, America would’ve never become the country it is today. The disadvantages lasted few years when the advantages are still present. Till today, America is still considered being one of the most powerful countries in the world.
