Apush Imperialism Essay Example

itself without our assistance, also known as “police power (Document F).” The sole purpose of the help given by the United States is to ensure that foreign countries remain stable and prosperous to avoid abuse of the people and catastrophe.

On the other hand, not everyone sought it fit for America to be putting so much attention on foreign affairs. These people were known as the Anti-imperialists. They believed that before America looked to expand, it should solve its internal issues. During 1899, wars in the Philippines took attention from the homeland, and people such as Anti-Imperialists did not concur with the decision to continue this war (Document D). In the end, though, the decision of the majority was to attempt to expand, or assist foreign countries.

In order to expand, sea power was believed to be a necessity. According to Alfred T. Mahan, three things were necessary to become more powerful at sea: protection of harbors, control of coaling stations around the United States, and naval force (Document C). With the growth of a naval force, especially, the United States became more successful and gained respect from the other great world powers. Prior to strengthening her navy, the United States had difficulty in expanding, so countries such as Britain, Germany and Russia were left to split the globe amongst themselves (Document A).

Post naval strengthening, the United states was not only able to compete with foreign countries, but dictated foreign policies. The political cartoon titled “American Diplomacy” clearly displays how the United States controlled the influence of other countries on China. This young country was so highly regarded that its rules

and regulations were acknowledged by countries that had existed for hundreds of years before the Americas were colonized. The United States’ growth in power allowed her to not only expand across the seas, but also to spread her morals around the world and assist those on the verge of collapse.

Throughout the years the United states both continued and departed from previous expansionism. By continuing to follow the principles of Manifest Destiny, the country continued elements of previous expansionism. On the other hand, new expansionism is portrayed through the extensive use of the navy and foreign policies. All of the aforesaid ideals allowed America to develop into the highly successful superpower we know today.