Essay about Imperialism in America - 478 Words

Imperialism in America American imperialism seems at first to be an oxymoron. After all, when this country was established, it was done so by a group of people fleeing the imperialistic oppression of their own homeland. These people had a dream of creating a place where a man could live for himself, free of the subjugation of his government or any other coercive force. This seemed like a relatively simple dream to fulfill at the time, when America was new and lacking the corruption of power. As it grew, however, the simplistic approach to life in the U.S. altered drastically. The power that came with the size and wealth that was soon associated with America brought changes in attitude. Why should America limit its ambition to†¦show more content†¦In a lull of such local problems as reconstruction and industrialization, Manifest Destiny was once again sovereign of the American initiative. The idea of the convenience and prosperity that control of worldwide colonies promised was easy to embra ce, and the conquering of those lands was nearly as easy. With a massively superior navy and the support of more than adequate ground forces, America swept over several Spanish colonies, including Cuba and the Philippines, under the pretence that they would be freed from their oppressor. After the land was essentially ours, however, it was easy to make it seem like we were right in taking over, at least until the peoples were secure in government and education. If during that time the colonies were used as way stations for U.S. travelers or navy ports, it was all in due thanks to the freeing of the natives, and not in any way imperialistic in nature, or at least that was how it was viewed by most Americans. When the inhabitants were deemed ready by the United States to manage their own lives, perhaps then their countries would be restored to their original status. Through most of the eighteenth and early nineteenth century, America emulated the definition of an empire.Show MoreRelatedEssay on Imperialism in America1192 Words   |  5 PagesImperialism in America At the turn of the century, America and the views of its people were changing. Many different ideas were surfacing about issues that affected the country as a whole. The Republican Party, led by William McKinley, were concentrating on the expansion of the United States and looking to excel in power and commerce. The Democratic Party at this time was led by William Jennings Bryan, who was absorbed in a sponge of morality and was concerned with the rights of man. TheRead MoreImperialism And Its Effects On America1370 Words   |  6 PagesCrisis October 2015 Imperialistic Racism Imperialism is nearly unheard of today, because historically it emerges from and promotes racist ideologies. 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