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In order to best answer the question posed one must break expansionism into two separate time periods. Both of these time periods show comparisons and contrasts with US expansionism. From 1776-1880 and the late 1800s-1914 are chronicled by major events in United States and World history. Using these documents as well as commonly known events that occurred during these time periods I will show the similarities and differences that late nineteenth century and early twentieth century United States expansionism exhibit from past United States expansionism.
United States expansionism has undergone many changes throughout the years. We have expanded for land, for God, and for the economy. As the people of the United States progressed both socially and economically, the methods of expansionism evolved from non-interference to democratic control, all the while struggling to stay true to the ideals of the forefathers.
The departures have grown on a parallel with US power. The growth of the navy gained bargaining power for the US. With our big stick we had the means to venture into non contiguous lands, such as the Philippines and even China. We began expanding to find markets for our ever-growing production. Once we had conquered the continental United States we saw that we had the ambition to take on the world, as well as a faith in God that expanded Manifest Destiny across bodies of water into previously unobtainable lands. Document C underlines the importance of naval power, as well as outlining the three necessary obligations. “First, protection of the chief harbors, by fortification and coast-defense ships Secondly, naval force, the arm of offensive power, which alone enables a country to extend its influence outward. Thirdly, no foreign state should henceforth acquire a coaling position within three thousand miles of San Francisco…” (Doc C). The importance of naval dominance and the Pacific Ocean is further stated by Senator...
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