Imperialism and Exceptionalism

Definition

Imperialism refers to the policy of extending a country's power and influence through colonization, military force, or other means. In the context of American exceptionalism, it highlights the belief that the United States has a unique role to play in world affairs, often justifying its imperial actions as benevolent or destined to spread democracy and freedom. This blend of imperialism and exceptionalism can be seen in various historical events where the U.S. engaged in foreign interventions while claiming a higher moral purpose.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. American exceptionalism is often tied to the idea that the U.S. has a unique mission to promote democracy and freedom around the world.
2. During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the United States expanded its influence through imperialistic actions in territories such as Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines.
3. The justification for American imperialism often included the belief that it would help 'civilize' or 'modernize' other nations, reflecting a paternalistic attitude.
4. Critics argue that American exceptionalism has been used to rationalize interventions that resulted in significant harm to other nations, challenging the notion of benevolence.
5. The consequences of American imperialism continue to impact global politics today, influencing perceptions of U.S. foreign policy and its role in international relations.

Review Questions

• How does American exceptionalism relate to the historical practice of imperialism by the United States?
  • American exceptionalism suggests that the U.S. has a distinct role in promoting democracy and freedom globally, which often provided a moral justification for its imperialistic actions. This belief led to events such as territorial acquisitions and military interventions under the premise of spreading American ideals. The combination of these ideologies shaped how Americans viewed their country's role on the world stage during significant periods of expansion.
• In what ways did the concept of Manifest Destiny contribute to America's imperialist policies in the 19th century?
  • Manifest Destiny fueled America's belief in its right to expand across North America, which laid the groundwork for further imperialist policies. It was not just about territorial expansion within the continent; it also influenced how Americans perceived their role in overseas territories. This mindset justified actions like the annexation of Texas and wars with Mexico, positioning them as a natural and divinely sanctioned mission of growth and influence.
• Evaluate how modern perceptions of American exceptionalism may affect current U.S. foreign policy decisions regarding intervention in other countries.
  • Modern perceptions of American exceptionalism can heavily influence U.S. foreign policy by fostering a sense of duty among leaders and policymakers to intervene in global conflicts under the guise of promoting democracy and human rights. This can lead to decisions that overlook local contexts or resist criticism regarding potential consequences for affected nations. The belief that America must 'lead' can result in either benevolent interventions or harmful meddling, illustrating the complex legacy of imperialism that continues to shape international relations today.

Related terms

Colonialism: The practice of acquiring full or partial control over another country, occupying it with settlers, and exploiting its resources.

Manifest Destiny: The 19th-century doctrine that the expansion of the U.S. throughout the American continents was both justified and inevitable.

Neocolonialism: The use of economic, political, cultural, or other pressures to control or influence other countries, often seen as a continuation of colonialism without direct political control.