Becoming a World Power

Imperialism Domination of strong nation over

weaker ones Expansion overseas Part of Manifest Destiny

Expansion in the Pacific Opened trade in Asia U.S. wanted Hawaii Naval base @ Pearl Harbor

Naval Dominance Capt. Alfred T. Mahan Protect merchant ships Defend trade Acquire territory overseas

Who sank the Maine? Blown up in Havana, Cuba Ship’s ammo exploded U.S. blamed Spain Cuban war for indep. from Spain

The Spanish-American War Yellow journalism- exaggerated

stories Jingoism- aggressive nationalism Spain declares war in 1898 U.S. takes Philippines, Guam

War (cont.) TR’s Rough Riders U.S. occupies Puerto Rico April 1898- Spain, U.S. agree to

cease-fire

Treaty of Paris Cuba indep. U.S. acquires PR, Guam Pay Spain $20 mil for Phil. U.S. position of world power

U.S. Diplomacy in Asia 1901- TR pres. “Speak softly and carry a big stick” Open Door Policy- declare trading

rights in China

The Panama Canal (1903) TR Shorten trade distance 8,000 nautical miles Save time/$

Dollar Diplomacy William H. Taft Invest in Latin Am. countries Protect overseas interests