Anglo-Saxonism

Definition

Anglo-Saxonism is a cultural and political ideology that promotes the belief in the superiority of Anglo-Saxon culture and people, often linked to the justification for territorial expansion and colonialism. This ideology emerged during the 19th century and became a significant part of American nationalism, influencing policies related to Manifest Destiny and the idea that the United States was destined to expand across North America.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Anglo-Saxonism was closely tied to the belief in racial hierarchy, suggesting that Anglo-Saxon individuals were more civilized and capable than other races.
2. The ideology justified territorial expansion by arguing that it was the duty of Anglo-Saxon Americans to 'civilize' other territories, particularly those inhabited by Native Americans and Mexicans.
3. Prominent figures such as John L. O'Sullivan used Anglo-Saxonism to advocate for westward expansion, coining the term 'Manifest Destiny' as a divine right for American expansion.
4. This ideology contributed to policies that resulted in significant land acquisitions, including the annexation of Texas and the Oregon Territory.
5. Anglo-Saxonism played a role in shaping immigration policies and attitudes towards non-Anglo-Saxon immigrants during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, often leading to discrimination.

Review Questions

• How did Anglo-Saxonism influence American policies regarding territorial expansion in the 19th century?
  • Anglo-Saxonism significantly shaped American policies regarding territorial expansion by providing a rationale for westward movement. Advocates believed it was their duty to spread their 'superior' culture across North America, which justified actions like the annexation of Texas and conflicts with Native American tribes. This ideology was intertwined with Manifest Destiny, as both concepts promoted the belief that Americans were destined to expand their territory and influence.
• In what ways did Anglo-Saxonism contribute to attitudes towards indigenous populations and non-Anglo-Saxon immigrants during this period?
  • Anglo-Saxonism fostered attitudes that dehumanized indigenous populations and justified their displacement during westward expansion. The belief in racial superiority led many Anglo-Saxons to view Native Americans as obstacles to progress. Similarly, this ideology influenced negative perceptions of non-Anglo-Saxon immigrants, resulting in discriminatory policies that favored Anglo-Saxon individuals while marginalizing others based on race and ethnicity.
• Evaluate the long-term impacts of Anglo-Saxonism on American identity and policy into the 20th century and beyond.
  • The long-term impacts of Anglo-Saxonism have shaped American identity by embedding ideas of racial superiority into national narratives, affecting immigration policies and social attitudes well into the 20th century. The notion of American Exceptionalism continued to evolve from these roots, influencing foreign policy decisions based on perceived moral obligations to 'civilize' other nations. Additionally, remnants of this ideology persist today in discussions surrounding nationalism and immigration, highlighting its lasting legacy on American society.

Related terms

Manifest Destiny:

The 19th-century doctrine that it was the divine right and destiny of the United States to expand its territory across North America.

American Exceptionalism:

The belief that the United States is inherently different from other nations, often rooted in a sense of mission to spread democracy and freedom.

Cultural Imperialism: The practice of promoting one culture over others, often through political or economic means, leading to the dominance of one culture at the expense of others.