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Acquisition of Alaska
William Seward, Secretary of State arranged for the U.S. to buy Alaska from the Russians for $7.2 million. Those who disagree with his idea called it "Seward's Icebox". Because of a lack of support from the public, it took Seward a long time to persuade Congress. The land ended up being rich in timber, minerals, and oil expanding American power. Finally in 1959 Alaska became the 50th state. -
Reason for Imperialism
Throughout the 19th century, America expanded toward the Pacific Ocean, however, they were called by many leaders to join the imperialist powers. Americans were not convinced at first but after Japan joined Europe in the 1890's they grew curious. Three forces, including the desire for military strength, thirst for new markets, and the belief in cultural superiority drove American international expansion. -
America & Cuba
Even though Cuba was independent the U.S was like its guardian. America controlled and establish provisions called the Platt Amendment, to ensure the establishment of the country. They also provided them with food and clothing and their medicine helped them find a cure for Yellow fever. Their only motive was to protect the business. -
America & Puerto rico
After the Spanish American War, the U.S assured Puerto Ricans that they would protect them. Puerto Rico would be controlled by the military until congress decided otherwise. The Foraker Act, passed by Congress in 1900, established a civil administration and put an end to military authority. In 1952 they became independent. -
Acquisition of Hawaii
McKinley Tariff of 1890 eliminated the duty-free status of Hawaiian sugar. American planters called to annex the islands so they wouldn’t have to pay the duty. In 1893 Queen Liliuokalani was overthrown by [160] U.S. sailors and marines who protested, she had no other option but to surrender. The U.S claimed Hawaii as an American territory and just like Alaska Hawaii also became a state in 1959 -
Spanish American War
America had an interest in Cuba since the 19th century but did not act. After Cuba rebelled against Spain, the U.S promised them independence. The Lome Letter influenced the war but the explosion of the U.S.S Maine on February 15, 1898, started the war. On August 12 1898 the U.S. and Spain signed The Treaty of Paris ending the war in Cuba and the Philippines. -
America & The Philippines
The Treaty of Paris called for the annexation of the Philippines. The United States, according to rebel leader Emilio Aguinaldo, had guaranteed independence. After some time, it became apparent that the promises were not being kept, and in February 1899 Filipinos, led by Aguinaldo, rose in revolt. After 3 years the revolt ended and they were established with a similar ruling as Puerto Rico. On July 4 1946 the Philippines became independent. -
America & China
China was seen as a weak country and a target for monopolization. John Hay's Open Door Notes were created to prevent this from happening. After a while, many Chinese were angry because of foreigners in the country and created Boxers a group of well-trained individuals to remove foreigners. A new set of Open Door Notes was established announcing that the United States would “safeguard for the world the principle of equal and impartial trade with all parts of the Chinese Empire”. -
Roosevelt & Foreign Policy
After Mckinley was assassinated in 1902 Teddy Roosevelt became the new president. He was a peacemaker winner of the 1906 Nobel Peace Price for helping Japan and Russia come to an agreement after the Russo-Japanese war. Helped build the Pana Canal, while also granting their independence from Colombia. In order to ensure keeping European forces out of the Caribbean Roosevelt's Corollary and Dollar Diplomacy brought them closer to Latin America. -
Wilson & Foreign Policy
Wilson gave the Monroe Doctrine a moral tone, declaring that any government in Latin America that was deemed to be harsh, undemocratic, or hostile to U.S. interests could be denied recognition. To weaken Mexico Wilson applied his “watchful waiting,” tactic to act against Huerta, almost resulting in a war between the U.S. and Mexico. Because of an incident between Carranza and American engineers, Villa was held responsible and was a target.
