American Imperialism - Essay Example

Adoption of Imperialism Nineteenth century marked the existence of imperialism in America. This policy was adopted because of the following reasons: America, having developed its infrastructure, sought to further amplify its reach. In doing so, they would need to implement this policy that would enable their products and services to be exchanged in a large group of countries in order to increase its economic and political capital (“American Imperialism,” n.d.). Nationalism became one of the reasons because as much as America wanted to grow, they also sought to protect its overseas territories--especially the existing territories.

In doing so, America did acquire the flags of Alaska, the Alleutian Islands, Midway Island, Hawaii, Guam, and Samoa, thus, extending the perimeter of America. Another reason was due to religious matters. There were missionaries who went after those inhabitants and taught them with some principles--convincing them that what they have is better. In 1850’s, missionaries landed at Hawaii to inculcate Christian beliefs to the inhabitants (“Reasons for U.S,” n.d.). Moreover, the American Imperialist sought to control trade circumstances in countries such as the Philippines, Cuba, Panama, and Hawaii etc.

In spite of many allegations as to the justification of this policy, the American imperialism was being rationalized because it took the form of direct military intervention, indirect manipulation over acquired countries, and overtaking local commerce. Major Events amidst Imperialism In the late 19th century, US carried out its imperialistic objectives to Cuba amidst the Spanish-American war. Cubans had the knowledge about the intentions of America even from the start. So, right after the war, the United Sates gained control over the areas of Havana with their flags raised and parading American troops.

Economically and politically speaking, American imperialist had made changes, thus inundating Cuba; in fact, 80 per cent of Cuba’s economic base was centered and controlled on American capital. What was lost during the ‘reign’ of American policy was Cubans independence to control their economy and politics. Consequently, they were made to fight against Americans to claim their freedom back (“American Imperialism,” n.d.). Meanwhile, another major event was the intervention of American imperialism into the internal affairs of Columbia.

The government of U.S eagerly wanted to penetrate the bounds of Panama. In doing so, they sought to obtain the permission of Columbia to build a canal across the Isthmus of Panama. But Americans was not successful in getting permission from Columbia because it doubted the desire and presence of Americans in the region. Subsequently, the administration of Roosevelt aided the Panamanians in a bid for independence from Columbia in 1977 just to achieve its goal. If it would be successful, the Panama Canal Zone (good way passageway between Atlantic and Pacific oceans) would be leased to U.

S for 99 years by the new Panamanian government. However, Imperialist continued to acquire political and economic powers from other nations such as Philippines and Hawaii. America did also maintain freedom and democracy in Puerto Rico by virtue of the Spanish American War. By then, Puerto Rico, without the involvement of America, would not be able to enjoy freedom and democracy. Americans shared the concept of democracy to the inhabitants of Puerto Rico