Imperialism

1. Define “Imperialism”. What events marked the United States’ development into an imperialist country? Does America still follow a policy of imperialism? Should we?

Imperialism is the policy used to increase the area that a country controls or governs to other nations or process used to take colonies and dependencies. The United States became part of the imperialistic group in the late nineteenth century through the control of Hawaiian Islands and post-Spanish American War. The reason for this was the desire to expand to other countries with an intention to manifest their purpose. To overspread the continent allotted by providence for free advancement of its millions (Davison, et al, 17). This was made possible through industrial revolution in the 19^th century that used imperialism to do away with hunger for wealth by western nations and creating modern nations by wars.

The use of imperialism was that it enabled the US to take control of other external markets and acquire huge finances. The pace used by Europeans to expand prompted the US to apply the same of conquer and possess. The US was close to other parts of the world and trade allowed them to be active in affairs. In the 1890s, the US was the most significant industrial power globally meaning that they had to get markets in other nations to offer affordable labour and natural resources that will improve the US’s economy (Davison, et al, 18). Additionally, other nations looked to be potential clients for the products produced.

The US does still practice imperialism though through influencing other nations to apply policies that favor its companies. However, this mode of persuasion is influences negatively other nations that may lead to war or subsequent retaliation to other smaller nations.

2. What role did the media play in determining America’s involvement in the Spanish-American-Cuban War? Did the media behave responsibly in this matter? Is the media’s role and responsibility different now?

The media played a vital role in propelling the US into the war with Spain. Reporters told of horrific tales in Cuba; executions, conflicts and starvations. Additionally and more significant was the sinking of the Maine which was blamed on the Spanish and through the public, the US had to respond (Wesling, 35). The media lacked credibility for providing information that lacked evidence in such a sensitive matter. Today, the media’s role and responsibility is not different from the past though policies in place are keen to curtail their freedom and ensure credibility.

3. What are the three American economic beliefs that are reflected in the Open Door policy? Are these beliefs still the bedrock of U.S. economic foreign policy? Explain your answer using examples.

The three American economic beliefs that are shown in the Open Door policy include;

1. Americans believed the exports from the country were important in the growth of the US economy.
2. The US believed that they were obligated to take part in foreign countries so as ensure that their markets were open.
3. The US was of the belief that their survival was at risk if a part of country was blocked to American products, locals and ideologies.

These beliefs are still the bedrock of the United States as they are based on the success of the economy of the country. However, the implementation of the policy is hindered by interest by other nation’s part of the treaty (Davison, et al, 25). For instance, Japan, a signatory to the policy, had to pursue its interest hence violating the policy. Additionally, the policy restricted the freedom of some countries which later made efforts to free themselves, a good example is China that regained its complete sovereignty.

4. How did the U.S. ascertain the land to build the Panama Canal? What were the benefits of building the Panama Canal? Was the building of the canal justified?

In 1902, the Panama, in control of Colombia, was not a separate country. The US through its president tried to acquire influence in the area and start the canal, made most of the wealthy locals to declare their freedom and promised military backing. This was achieved in 1903 (Davison, 31). Later, Philippe Buneau-Varilla agreed to a treaty with the US with no authorization for the start of building of the canal.

The panama canal of benefits as it facilitated the imports and exports of products which resulted to creation of employment, the economy of the country was improved through trade and so was travelling (Wesling, 42). For instance the movement of gold. The building of the canal was not justified as it made use shrewed means to meet the interest of the US.

 

 

Works Cited

Davison, J.W., Delay, B., Heyrman, C.L., Lytle, M., Stoff, M.B. Nation of Nations:
A narrative History of the American Republic Volume II: Since 1865, Chapters 17-32
(Sixth Edition). Boston, MA: McGraw Hill Publishing Company, 2008.

Wesling, M. Empire’s Proxy: American Literature and U.S. Imperialism in the        Philippines. New York: NYU Press, 2011.