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Purchase of Alaska
Alaska was purchased by William Steward in 1867 for 7.2 million dollars. This purchase almost doubled the size of the US, and it gave them access to a vast amount of natural resources.
This event is important because it marks the addition of one of the last state to the US. It is also see as an important marker in the road to America’s power. It gave them access to resources such as timber and oil which helped the economy, and it gave America a greater reach across the Pacific.] -
Hawaii becomes a part of the United States
In 1893 the US overthrew the Hawaiian Queen after she abolished the laws the US had set. Once she was out of the picture the US took control of Hawaii and it became a part of the US.
This is important because it establishes the amount of power the US had. They were able to take control of a country that had been prospering for decades without much of a problem. All they did was have to white planters there rebel, and then use their Marines to take over, and this was only the start. -
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Rebellion of the Filipinos
After the Spanish-American War, the US gained control of the Philipines. The people, unaware that the US would maintain possession started a rebellion against the US. The rebellion brought about a lot of death, and it took 3 years to end with the help of US troops.
America felt that since they were superior to the Philippines, they had to have control over them. When the fighting broke out, the Americans were able to put a deadly end to it. This is exactly what imperialism represented. -
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Spanish-American War
McKinley was preparing for war against Spain after the Maine blew up due to Spain. Before they could declare war, Spain did first. In the end, the US destroyed Spain and defeated them. It officially ended with the Treaty of Paris.
This event is important because it once again shows the power of the US military. They were able to defeat the nation of Spain. Men were eager to fight, and with the Rough Riders, they were able to get the job done well. Once again showing the US' tactical strengths. -
America’s Navy and Military Grows
In the late 1890s, Imperialists felt that America needed their military strength to grow. They manufactured new battleships, and it wasn’t long before America had the third largest Navy in the world in 1900.
This event is important to the imperial period because it represents the start of this period. Imperialism focuses on strong nations overtaking weaker territories. With their new Navy, they had a new kind of power that they would use to conquer territories. -
The Boxer Rebellion
After China fell into multiple spheres of influence, secret groups formed and began the Boxer Rebellion out of anger because of reforms from other countries. With a combination of US forces and other countries, the rebellion was squashed. However there was still death and destruction.
This shows just how much the US has grown in their power. They are able to help other nations across the world, and easily destroy a rebellion. It marks the strength of the United States. -
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The US and Puerto Rico
After the Spanish-American war, the US gained control over Puerto Rico. A Civil Government was added there with the Foraker Act. Until 1917, Puerto Ricans did not have equal rights as Americans, and even after the Jones-Shafroth Act, they didn't have every right.
This is an important event because it marks yet another territory the US gained control over. It raised the status of the US since they now had more land control. Overall, it helped America, even if the natives weren't happy about it. -
America Establishes Cuban Protectorate
After the US won the Spanish-American war, Cuba won its independence through the treaty of Paris. However, the US did not leave their island until 1902, and before they left they made a deal with Cuba.
This became known as the Platt Amendment which brought the island into the US' sphere of influence. This is very important because it allowed the US to build a naval base in Cuba. It also kept Cuba from becoming a base for hostile power. Even to this day, this agreement has helped the US. -
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The Russo-Japan War
In 1904 conflict between Russia and Japan broke out, and there were many casualties. When talks for peace stopped, Roosevelt intervened and convinced them to create a peace treaty. He earned a Noble Peace Prize for his efforts.
This event is notable because it involves the US stepping in the make the world better. They were about ease the tensions successfully between two nations which is a very big thing to do. The President of the US even got a most honorable award which is very impressive. -
The Great White Fleet
The Great White Fleet was a force of US Naval Ships. The US sent these 16 ships on a good will cruise around the world. They were created to be prepared in case there was ever attack from Japan.
This is important because it was a statement to the world that America was powerful. It showed their military strength, it this was something monumental. Even if they didn’t do the cruise for war, it showed what they wer capable of, and that is important.