key term - U.S. Overseas Expansion

Definition

U.S. Overseas Expansion refers to the period during the late 19th and early 20th centuries when the United States sought to extend its influence and control beyond its continental borders. This movement was driven by various factors, including economic interests, military strategy, and a belief in American exceptionalism, which justified the spread of U.S. ideals and governance. The idea of Manifest Destiny, which initially focused on westward expansion across North America, evolved to encompass a broader vision of American expansionism overseas.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The U.S. overseas expansion began in earnest after the Spanish-American War in 1898, leading to the acquisition of territories such as Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines.
2. The concept of Manifest Destiny was a driving force behind U.S. overseas expansion, as many Americans believed it was their duty to spread democracy and civilization.
3. Economic motivations played a crucial role in overseas expansion, with American businesses seeking new markets for their goods and investments in foreign territories.
4. Military strategy influenced U.S. overseas expansion, as demonstrated by the establishment of naval bases around the world to protect American interests.
5. The Open Door Policy in China exemplified the U.S. approach to maintaining access to international markets while opposing colonial monopolies.

Review Questions

• How did the concept of Manifest Destiny evolve from westward expansion to overseas expansion, and what were the implications of this shift?
  • Manifest Destiny originally centered on the belief that Americans were destined to expand across North America. As the nation reached the Pacific coast, this belief transformed into a justification for overseas expansion, promoting ideas of American exceptionalism and responsibility to spread democracy and civilization. This shift allowed the United States to engage more directly in global affairs, leading to significant territorial acquisitions and establishing America as an emerging world power.
• Analyze how economic factors influenced U.S. overseas expansion during the late 19th century.
  • Economic factors were pivotal in driving U.S. overseas expansion as American industries sought new markets for their goods amid growing production capabilities. The desire for raw materials and resources also fueled interest in territories like Alaska and the Philippines. Furthermore, as businesses looked beyond domestic borders for growth opportunities, government policies often supported imperialistic ventures, resulting in military interventions that furthered U.S. economic interests abroad.
• Evaluate the long-term consequences of U.S. overseas expansion on international relations in the 20th century.
  • The long-term consequences of U.S. overseas expansion significantly reshaped international relations in the 20th century by establishing the United States as a dominant global power. This era marked America's transition from isolationism to interventionism, influencing foreign policy decisions throughout conflicts such as World War I and II. The establishment of military bases worldwide and participation in international organizations reflected America's commitment to maintaining its influence, ultimately shaping global politics and economics in ways that still resonate today.

Related terms

Imperialism:

The policy of extending a country's power and influence through diplomacy or military force, often leading to the acquisition of territories.

Annexation:

The act of adding a territory to an existing political unit, particularly in the context of U.S. expansion during the 19th century.

Seward's Folly: A term used to describe the purchase of Alaska from Russia in 1867, which was initially criticized but later recognized for its strategic and economic value.