Events That Fueled US Imperialist Trajectory

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U.S. Imperialist Trajectory
Introduction
The U.S.A emerged from the doldrums of isolationism in the late 19th century to become one of the most powerful and also most prosperous nations on earth. During the late 19th century, the United States transitioned from isolationism to imperialism. American imperialism came about as a result of the realization that the nation needed to flex its muscles against the ever-groing influence of other major global players such as the Soviet Union. The expansionist approach embraced by the U.S. was against the backdrop of a lot of discourse from back home and also around the world. Proponents of expansionism believed imperialism would stimulate the economy by creating new markets and job opportunities. However, opponents of imperialism warned of despotic tendencies, the violation of indigenous populations' consent, and the contradiction of American principles. Nevertheless, the U.S. acquired Alaska, supported Cuba's independence, and gained strategic territories like Puerto Rico, Cuba, and the Philippines, providing advantages in the Western Hemisphere and East Asia. In the context of imperialism, this essay will examine various aspects of the Spanish-American War, including economic justifications, gendered influences, opposition, the propagation of civilization and racial justifications, securing the Western Hemisphere, and the ensuing consequences.
Economic Justifications for Imperialism
The economic rationales behind imperialism revolved around addressing economic instability through various means. Supporters contended that the American economy suffered from the recurring predicaments of overproduction and underconsumption, which resulted in high unemployment rates and societal dissatisfaction. Their argument rested on the notion that expanding markets overseas would generate employment prospects domestically and alleviate these challenges. Governor Alfred Colquitt envisioned Georgia as a manufacturing hub for East Asia, underscoring the need to access foreign markets. By unearthing new avenues for trade, imperialism aimed to stabilize the economy and mitigate the aforementioned economic concerns. It was therefore seen that the U.S.A could expand its global market through expansion of its reach.
An additional economic rationale for imperialism stemmed from concerns about the rapid colonization efforts of other nations worldwide. The berlin Conference around a century earlier, had basically seen the scramble and partition of not just Africa but much of the known world by European powers. It was more like a flex of strength and territory marking by these nations. Advocates of imperialism asserted that a nation's strength was determined by its far-flung territories, and it was crucial for the United States to avoid being seen as isolationist. They contended that unless the U.S. tended to imperialism, it risked attracting the attention of more dominant and expansionist empires. The experience of China served as a sobering example, as the nation had isolated itself from global affairs, only to face colonization by European powers.
An additional driving force behind imperialism was the notion that it would alleviate concerns regarding masculinity within Anglo-American men. Indulgence and a comfortable existence were considered effeminate, and imperialism was regarded as a remedy for perceived emasculation. Through military conquests and the domination of indigenous communities, American men would demonstrate their masculinity and assert the nation's power. Advocates asserted that accepting imperialism was essential to prevent the United States from being seen as feeble by other imperialist nations and to protect the country's autonomy.
Nevertheless, a segment of the population did not endorse these rationales. The Anti-Imperialist League actively opposed imperialism and argued that it would give rise to authoritarian tendencies while undermining the expression of dissent and the fundamental right to consent. In their perspective, imperialism clashed with the very principles upon which the United States was established, prompting them to question how a former colony could adopt the role of a colonizer. The anti-imperialists cautioned against the perils of censorship and the potential transformation of the constitutional republic into an autocracy. They further stressed the significance of honouring the autonomy and consent of the indigenous populations subjected to imperial domination.
Masculine Tendencies and Imperialism
Masculinity is all about the need to show strength, authority and influence so as to earn respect and even relevance. The advocates of imperialism during the Progressive era believed that expanding the U.S. influence abroad was necessary for economic stability and to avoid appearing weak and isolationist. They argued that overseas markets would create job opportunities and prevent social unrest. Imperialism was also seen as a means to counter the perceived decline of masculinity among Anglo-American males. Conversely, anti-imperialists feared despotic tendencies, violated the freedoms of natives, and questioned imposing civilization on non-European cultures. The Spanish-American War facilitated territorial expansion and protected Western Hemisphere interests, while Japan's rise raised concerns about U.S. economic influence in East Asia.
Opposition to Imperialism
The Progressive Era witnessed ...