Section 1
Identify the three main factors the chapter lists as fueling new U.S. imperialism in the late 1800s.
1) Desire for military strength
2) Thirst for new markets
3) Belief in cultural superiority
Who was José Martí, and what tactics did he use?
José Martí was a Cuban nationalist leader. He wrote articles and speeches to gain U.S. sympathy for Cuban independence.
How did McKinley justify annexing the Philippines?
He argued the U.S. had a duty to civilize and Christianize Filipinos. He believed annexation was morally justified.
Why was the Panama Canal important?
It shortened travel between oceans. It strengthened military and trade efficiency.
Who was Alfred T. Mahan, and what role did his ideas play in U.S. policy?
Alfred T. Mahan was a U.S. naval officer and historian. He argued that national greatness depended on sea power. His ideas strongly influenced U.S. foreign and military policy.
What was yellow journalism?
Yellow journalism exaggerated or distorted news to sell papers. Publishers like Hearst and Pulitzer sensationalized Cuban events. This stirred pro-war sentiment.
Who was Emilio Aguinaldo, and why did Filipinos revolt?
Aguinaldo was a Filipino nationalist leader. Filipinos resisted U.S. rule because they wanted independence.
What was the Roosevelt Corollary?
It expanded the Monroe Doctrine. The U.S. claimed the right to intervene in Latin America.
How did industrial overproduction in the U.S. create incentives for acquiring foreign markets?
Imperialists viewed foreign trade as the solution to American overproduction and the related problems of unemployment and economic depression.
What was the de Lôme Letter?
The de Lôme Letter insulted President McKinley. Its publication angered Americans. It worsened relations with Spain.
What was the Foraker Act?
It created a U.S.-controlled government in Puerto Rico. Residents had limited self-rule by only being able to elect a lower house of legislation.
What was dollar diplomacy?
It used economic investment to influence nations. Under Taft, it guided actions in places like Nicaragua.
Why were the Hawaiian Islands important to U.S. economic and military interests in the Pacific?
Hawaii’s location made it a key refueling station for Pacific trade and naval travel. American businesses invested heavily in sugar plantations. The U.S. viewed Hawaii as vital to economic and military interests.
Who were the Rough Riders?
They were volunteer cavalry led by Theodore Roosevelt. Their bravery gained national attention. They became symbols of American heroism.
What was the Platt Amendment?
It limited Cuban sovereignty. The U.S. could intervene militarily. Cuba became a protectorate.
Who were Pancho Villa and Emiliano Zapata, and how did the U.S. respond?
They were Mexican revolutionaries. The U.S. sent troops under Pershing, showing its priority on regional stability.
How did the McKinley Tariff of 1890 contribute to the movement for annexing Hawaii?
The tariff placed duties on Hawaiian sugar. Annexation eliminated these tariffs. Planters supported joining the U.S. for economic benefits.
What does troop readiness reveal about the U.S. army?
Many soldiers lacked training and supplies. Despite problems, they won quickly. The war exposed military weaknesses.
What were the Open Door Notes?
Issued by John Hay, they promoted equal trade in China. They aimed to protect U.S. economic interests by preventing monopolies on foreign markets.
How did the U.S. acquire canal land?
The U.S. supported Panama’s independence. Panama granted canal rights in return.