Jingoism

Definition

Jingoism is an extreme form of patriotism that often advocates for aggressive foreign policy and military action. This intense national pride can lead to a fervent belief in one's country's superiority and a desire to expand its influence or territory, often at the expense of others. In the context of the Spanish-American War, jingoism fueled public support for intervention in Cuba and the Philippines, as many Americans felt it was their duty to spread democracy and civilization, reflecting a mix of nationalism and imperialism.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Jingoism became particularly prominent in the late 19th century, coinciding with rising tensions between the United States and Spain over Cuba.
2. Sensationalist journalism, often referred to as yellow journalism, played a crucial role in stirring jingoistic sentiments among the American public.
3. Prominent political figures and writers, such as Theodore Roosevelt, were strong advocates of jingoism, pushing for military action against Spain.
4. The rallying cry 'Remember the Maine!' exemplified how jingoism fueled public outrage and calls for war after the explosion of the USS Maine in Havana Harbor.
5. Jingoism contributed to a shift in U.S. foreign policy from isolationism to a more interventionist approach, setting the stage for future conflicts in the 20th century.

Review Questions

• How did jingoism influence public opinion and government policy leading up to the Spanish-American War?
  • Jingoism significantly swayed public opinion by fostering a sense of urgency and outrage against Spain, particularly due to events like the sinking of the USS Maine. The combination of nationalist fervor and sensationalist media coverage galvanized many Americans to support military intervention. This wave of jingoistic sentiment created political pressure on government officials, leading to a more aggressive foreign policy that ultimately resulted in war.
• Evaluate the role of yellow journalism in promoting jingoism during the Spanish-American War. How did this impact American perceptions of foreign conflict?
  • Yellow journalism played a pivotal role in amplifying jingoistic sentiments by sensationalizing events in Cuba and portraying Spain as a brutal oppressor. Newspapers exaggerated reports of atrocities, which stoked public outrage and created an atmosphere ripe for military intervention. As a result, Americans increasingly viewed foreign conflicts through a lens of nationalism and moral obligation, reinforcing jingoistic attitudes toward U.S. involvement abroad.
• Assess the long-term implications of jingoism on American foreign policy after the Spanish-American War. What patterns can be observed in subsequent U.S. interventions around the world?
  • The rise of jingoism during the Spanish-American War set a precedent for future American foreign policy characterized by interventionism and imperial expansion. Following this conflict, similar patterns emerged as jingoistic fervor justified U.S. actions in various regions, including Latin America and Asia. The belief that America had a responsibility to promote democracy and civilization abroad became entrenched, influencing decisions in conflicts such as World War I, World War II, and beyond, ultimately shaping America's role as a global superpower.

Related terms

Imperialism:

A policy of extending a country's power and influence through colonization, military force, or other means.

Manifest Destiny:

The 19th-century doctrine that the expansion of the United States throughout the American continents was both justified and inevitable.

Spanish-American War:

A conflict between Spain and the United States in 1898, resulting in U.S. intervention in Cuba and the acquisition of territories such as Puerto Rico and the Philippines.