by Ann Nelson-Russell

Created on: April 06, 2009

American Imperialism

During the mid 1800's and beyond, many attributes of the American people and the government were displayed. Not everyone agreed that the attributes and actions were a positive addition to society, ours or others. Political and personal views demonstrated that some people and countries believed that they were superior to others. African Americans, women, Indians, and immigrants often were oppressed and overpowered. Those that believed in the social Darwinism theory would agree that, "By natural as well as divine law, the fittest people would assert their domination over lesser peoples" of the worlds" (Davidson, 2008). America had developed a taste and talent for using their abilities and creativity to invent, employ, enlist, produce, and conquer most any obstacle. These thirsts to expand, create, and conquer led America toward what is called the American Imperialism.

Imperialism can be viewed as one nation deciding that they are superior and desire to enlarge their empire by obtaining more territory. Many times the means of acquisition involve imposing force upon the weaker nations. The desire to achieve a truly global empire sprang forth from "the technology of arms and networks of communication, transportation, and commerce" (Davidson, 2008). However, the seeds of Imperialism began to germinate in the late 1800's and early 1900's. "The U.S. was bursting with a new sense of power and nationalism, generated by the booming increase in population, wealth, and industrial production. Many Americans thought that overseas markets might provide a safety valve to relieve such pressures as; labor violence and agrarian unrest" (Sage).

Exporting goods had become a common occurrence by the 1890's. Cotton farmers were exporting about half of their crops to other countries, wheat was being exported, and oil refineries were shipping overseas. The United States was not the only country with the vision of becoming a great empire. Great Britain, France, Belgium, Germany, Japan, and Spain all had imperial visions of their own.

Theodore Roosevelt demonstrated his position toward foreign policy when he attempted to lease the narrow strip of land from Columbia's Panamanian province in Central America. T.R. wanted access to that isthmus in order to transport goods by ships from the Atlantic to the Pacific. The ability to trade goods, services, religious philosophies, ideas, and optimize the output of the natural resources was all part of the recipe to produce a strong

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