Jingoism

Definition

Jingoism is an extreme form of patriotism and nationalism, characterized by a belligerent foreign policy, a belief in the superiority of one's country over others, and a willingness to go to war to defend the country's honor and interests. It is often associated with an aggressive, militaristic, and chauvinistic attitude towards foreign nations. The term 'jingoism' is particularly relevant in the context of the Spanish-American War and the United States' overseas empire, as it captures the fervent nationalism and expansionist sentiments that drove American foreign policy during this period.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Jingoism played a significant role in the lead-up to the Spanish-American War, as American newspapers and politicians whipped up public sentiment against Spain and its perceived mistreatment of Cubans.
2. The acquisition of overseas territories, such as the Philippines, Puerto Rico, and Guam, following the Spanish-American War was driven by a jingoist desire to expand American power and influence around the world.
3. Jingoism was often used to justify the use of military force and the suppression of local populations in the Philippines and other American colonies, as the US sought to assert its dominance and 'civilize' the native populations.
4. Jingoistic attitudes contributed to the US's reluctance to engage in international cooperation and diplomacy, as the country prioritized its own national interests and military might over multilateral approaches to global issues.
5. The rise of jingoism in the late 19th and early 20th centuries was fueled by a combination of factors, including economic and social anxieties, a desire for national prestige, and a belief in the inherent superiority of American values and institutions.

Review Questions

• Explain how jingoism influenced the United States' decision to go to war with Spain in the Spanish-American War.
  • Jingoism, characterized by a belligerent foreign policy and a belief in the superiority of one's country, played a significant role in the lead-up to the Spanish-American War. American newspapers and politicians whipped up public sentiment against Spain and its perceived mistreatment of Cubans, fueling a desire to intervene and assert American power. This jingoistic attitude, combined with a sense of national pride and a belief in the US's right to expand its influence, ultimately led the country to declare war on Spain in 1898, marking the beginning of the Spanish-American War and the subsequent acquisition of overseas territories.
• Describe how jingoism influenced the United States' approach to governing its newly acquired overseas territories following the Spanish-American War.
  • The acquisition of overseas territories, such as the Philippines, Puerto Rico, and Guam, following the Spanish-American War was driven by a jingoist desire to expand American power and influence around the world. Jingoistic attitudes contributed to the US's reluctance to engage in international cooperation and diplomacy, as the country prioritized its own national interests and military might over multilateral approaches to global issues. This mindset also justified the use of military force and the suppression of local populations in the colonies, as the US sought to assert its dominance and 'civilize' the native populations, believing in the inherent superiority of American values and institutions.
• Analyze the long-term consequences of jingoism on the United States' foreign policy and global standing in the early 20th century.
  • The rise of jingoism in the late 19th and early 20th centuries had significant long-term consequences for the United States' foreign policy and global standing. The country's belligerent and expansionist approach, fueled by a belief in its own superiority and a willingness to use military force, strained its relationships with other nations and contributed to a growing perception of the US as an imperialist power. This jingoistic mindset also made the US reluctant to engage in international cooperation and diplomacy, undermining its ability to address global issues effectively. In the long run, the negative impacts of jingoism on the US's foreign relations and global reputation ultimately undermined its ability to exert influence and maintain its position as a leading power on the world stage.

Related terms

Nationalism: The belief in and promotion of the interests of one's own nation, often to the exclusion or detriment of other nations.

Militarism: The belief in and emphasis on the use of military power and the glorification of military virtues.

Chauvinism: An extreme and unreasoning belief in the superiority of one's own group, race, or sex, often accompanied by a desire to dominate others.