Philippines Acquisition

Definition

The Philippines Acquisition refers to the United States' acquisition of the Philippines from Spain following the Spanish-American War in 1898. This marked a significant shift in U.S. foreign policy as it became an imperial power.

Analogy

Think of the Philippines Acquisition like buying a new, exotic pet. Before, you only had domestic pets (like states within your country), but now you've decided to get something more exotic and far away (like territories overseas). It's exciting but also comes with new responsibilities and challenges.

Related terms

Imperialism: A policy or ideology by which a nation extends its power by acquiring territories or establishing dominance over other nations.

Spanish-American War: A conflict between Spain and the United States in 1898, resulting in America gaining control over former Spanish colonies such as Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines.

Treaty of Paris (1898): The agreement that ended the Spanish-American War where Spain ceded Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippine Islands to the U.S.