Causes of Imperialism in the US in the latter 1800’s:
Economic 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. Manufacturing nations needed new markets to sell their manufacturing goods.
Nationalistic factors – 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.
Military factors – Thanks to the military technology, European armies and with their weapons, they became more powerful and superior to African and Asian armies. Additionally, growing navies required bases and sources around the world for fuel and supplies.
Humanitarian factors – 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.
Examples of imperialism in the US in latter 1800’s :
France acquired colonies in Africa in 1800’s but rival nations in Great Britain and Germany seized nearby lands to stop French expansion. Great Britain acquired many new territories. Germany seized new colonies in Africa and Asia. US finally hunted to annexe new lands.
Effects of Imperialism in the US & other territories in latter 1800’s :
Globalization. Also, the US was now balanced with other big empires; they had equal power and was now considered part of the high class countries.
Arguments for Imperialism
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.
Arguments against Imperialism
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” fundations. They also feared imperialism would lead to rebellions.
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