US Imperialism Overview

What belief did George Washington hold regarding the United States' role in foreign affairs?

Which philosophy suggested that some countries were inherently better suited to control others?

Which territory did the United States NOT acquire after the Spanish-American War?

What event marked the beginning of the United States' expansion of influence globally after its isolationist period?

What organization formed in 1898 opposed American imperialism?

Overview of Imperialism

Imperialism involves a powerful nation controlling another country through military, economic, and political means.
Historical context: The United States was initially isolationist post-independence from Great Britain in 1783.

Early Isolationism

George Washington advocated for isolationism to avoid foreign entanglements for the newly independent U.S.

Shift Towards Expansion

After the Civil War (1865), the U.S. began expanding its influence globally.
Social Darwinism influenced this expansion; it posited that success and power were due to inherent superiority, leading to International Darwinism concepts.

Key Territorial Expansions

Initial expansion began with Alaska and Hawaii.
The U.S. gained further territories following the Spanish-American War in 1898.

Post-War Influence

After World War II, U.S. control extended to regions like Vietnam and Korea, reflecting continued imperialist policies.

Opposition to Imperialism

The Anti-Imperialist League formed in 1898 against U.S. foreign involvement but was no longer active by 1920.

Modern Context

Contemporary references to American imperialism are often linked to U.S. engagement in the Middle East.

This quiz covers the key concepts of imperialism, focusing on the United States' transformation from an isolationist nation to one exerting influence post-Civil War. Explore how historical events shaped U.S. foreign policy and its impact on other countries. Test your understanding of these critical developments in American history.