Watch the video above. Take detailed notes. Draw the diagram in your notes that the Professor writes out for you. This will help you answer the prompts below. You will be able to think critically about examples that you find from media sources or your textbook.
Prompts What were some of the methods by which the United States expanded its economic and political influence around the world in the late 1800s and early 1900s? How did economic interests sometimes lead to military action? Cite specific examples—such as Japan, Hawaii, Cuba, the Philippines, China, Panama, and/or Nicaragua—in your answer. What is the meaning of Teddy Roosevelt's motto "Speak softly, and carry a big stick" in regard to foreign policy? How did he implement this policy during his presidency? What do you think of the policy? Is it effective? Is it right? Study the political cartoon Civilization Begins at Home. What is the cartoonist saying about American foreign policy? What attitudes toward foreign nations does the cartoonist think are wrong? What aspects of American history and society are criticized in the cartoon? Do you agree with the ideas expressed by the cartoon? Original Posts 250 words (minimum). Respond to three other students 50 words (minimum). Original post due Thursday @ midnight. Responses (3) due Sunday @ midnight.
92 Comments
Mark De Martini
1/13/2016 12:46:27 pm
The late 1800s was a time of American expansion into a soft imperial power. Japan, Hawaii, Cuba and Nicaragua are cited examples. It was European imperialism that motivated the U.S. to formulate an international counter under the intent of the Monroe Doctrine. As WWI was just mere years away engulfing Western Europe in a destructive military test of will enhancing U.S. international standing was justified. In the case of Japan, the U.S. had forced trade with Admiral Perry's visit to Tokyo Bay in the mid-1800s. This act initiated Japan's remarkable industrial transformation and led to the Russo-Japan war that President Theodore Roosevelt brokered a long standing peace agreement that was unfair to Korea and led to Japanese ambitions in China. Hawaii was a strategic asset in providing a coal refueling port for the U.S. fleet. Panama was another ambitious imperial move to provide quick access to the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans. Roosevelt provoked a local uprising that separated Panama from Columbian control. Cuba and the Philippines were war prizes after the Spanish American war of 1898. The war was fought to end Spanish rule in the Caribbean near U.S. waters. Nicaragua is a victim of the Banana Wars discussed in my blog last week. Hawaii is a great State but the indigenous people lost out greatly as they failed to retain their land and monarchy to U.S and Asian interests.
Reply
mark demaritni
1/14/2016 09:57:58 am
I have to respond to my own blog since I failed to include Theodore Roosevelt's "Speak Softly but Carry a Big Stick" policy during his presidency. The term was an accurate description to Roosevelt's foreign policy and vision during the early 1900s. He believed that America had to successfully project power to earn and maintain the respect of other nations. The around the world tour of the U.S. Navy's White Fleet of newly constructed modern dreadnought battleships was a show of American might and power. Roosevelt was able to force American interests on Latin America and parts of the Pacific by projecting power while reserving the right to use it if required. Historians generally agree that America become an imperial power after the Spanish American War of 1898. Roosevelt inherited the spoils of war along with the shift of international dynamics. He was aware of all this and his "speak softly but carry a big stick" policy met those dynamics.
Reply
Wenli Zhou
1/13/2016 11:04:15 pm
Reply
Mary Rasooli
1/15/2016 07:45:57 pm
Hi Wenli! In response to your Roosevelt quote, I agree that speaking softly but still making sure others are aware of your power whether it may be economic, political or military power is what roosevelt was implying. In a sense, i feel that its a good strategy to be able to remove a lot of aggression when interacting with other countries. However, i also feel that it's in a way a means to "bully" other countries as well. I wouldn't be surprised if such tactics have been used by the US to "softly" bully countries into doing things out of fear of the US's powerful and aggressive "big stick"
Reply
Yumi Okawara
1/17/2016 03:21:01 am
Hi, Wenli! I enjoyed reading your statement. I have known the name Teddy Roosevelt, but I did not know what he made up till you mentioned his details. For instance, you stated above, “Teddy Roosevelt expanded America's empire after he took office in 1901. As President, he wanted America to have the same image as himself: tough, ready, strong. Roosevelt wanted to increase the influence and prestige of the United States on the world stage and make the country a global power. The establishment of the Panama Canal and Roosevelt Corollary really embodied America's influence around the world.” After reading your statement, I was convinced by his motto “speak softly and carry a big stick.”
Reply
Steven Pham
1/17/2016 01:35:34 pm
Hey Wenli!
Reply
Madalyn Hart
1/17/2016 11:55:07 pm
I like your point of view on Roosevelts "speak softly, and cary a big stick". I had never thought of it that way until after reading your essay. It makes sense because the whole point of wanting to seam really strong to other countries would be to avoid unwanted conflict. Your essay also had a very nice flow to it, and was very enjoyable to read!
Reply
Anteo Swenson
1/13/2016 11:55:32 pm
The United States was once a colony of the biggest empire in the world, Great Britain. It was a colony filled with people seeking opportunity, guided by ambition; a characteristic that is still embedded in our culture. A lot of the British political culture was also passed on to its now independent colony. Certain expansionist philosophies were embedded in their politics and foreign policy. As the United States began to increase its power, it began to include itself in the colonizers game. During the late 1800’s, as Europe was going through turmoil, the US began to express its interests in global expansion more explicitly. Every single territory they invade had a strategic reason to be so. Hawaii was a strategic spot for fueling and bases in the Pacific. Cuba and the Philippines were intervened during and after the Spanish-American war. Panama was a strategic area where the US wanted to gain easy access to both the Atlantic and Pacific Ocean; it was also the epitome of the self-interests and the control the US wanted to have over South and Central America. Every of these interventions in other nations was eased into, and taken advantage of considering what the previous colonizers (if any) were going through. The US began to show its astute and dominant traits.
Reply
sharelle smith
1/17/2016 11:13:59 pm
The U.S does provide some charity, but as a tool for an exchange. You are right that a lot of money goes into military neglecting at home issues. The sad part is that our veterans go to war and many times the reason for the war is a lie. Than when they come home they aren't taken care of. There is a reason for the saying take care of home first before you start taking care of someone else. I think Switzerland has that down pat. They rarely involve themselves with any other issues..... I'm not sure if that"s bad or good. Someone should look into the reasoning behind that.
Reply
Thu-Thao Ho
1/14/2016 12:43:18 am
Teddy Roosevelt's proverb, "Speak softly, and carry a big stick" is to act with intelligence and strategy in times of international conflict, to exercise diplomacy over military action, and to be open to peace negotiations. This foreign policy came into practice memorably in September of 1905, marking the end of the Russo-Japanese War. Teddy Roosevelt had exercised his power as a strong leader in order to negotiate the Treaty of Portsmouth with Russia and Japan. Under Roosevelt's proposals, the treaty allowed for both nations to come to a peaceful compromise. The treaty gave Japan control over Korea and parts of Manchuria, along with the southern half of Sakhalin Islands as well as the rights to the railway that connected to the rest of Port Arthur. Russia was exempted from all Japan war costs, and both nations were not required to pay for war reparations. "Speak softly and carry a big stick" is used in order to be decisive. Nations in disputes must both agree to the terms, but in order for agreement to happen one must use diplomacy to draw forth a peaceful solution. Roosevelt acts with intelligence in recognizing that both nations were financially unsustainable and could not continue with the war. His proposed solution saved nations millions if not billions of dollars from war costs, and helped end a crisis that endangered innocent lives for both sides of the battlefield.
Reply
Mark De Martini
1/15/2016 02:19:54 pm
Thu,
Reply
Luis Ballesteros
1/17/2016 09:11:16 pm
Hi Thu,
Reply
Lin Tian
1/17/2016 11:12:47 pm
Hi Thu,
Reply
sharelle smith
1/17/2016 11:21:04 pm
"Wars are ineffective in resolving international affairs, and cause major internal conflict for nations involved". I don't believe all wars are ineffective. Sometimes other countries need to get involved when there are civil wars, or mass genocides. I think the reason the wars are not here in the U.S because it's happening in the other country, so that's where we need to go. I'm sure if the war was here we would have the same issues as well that come with the after math of battle. We should provide support to civilians and not the government of those countries and ask them what do they need, what do they think would be helpful. Without strings attached if we are really going to help.
Reply
Gabriel Alcantara
1/17/2016 11:31:57 pm
Your explanation of Theodore Roosevelt's proverb is something that can be related to multiple sections of our history. The whole 20th century encountered many situations in which that proverb becomes a perfect description of the United States, specially when it comes to the Cold War. The many "peace agreements" and show of strength presented(nuclear weapons) by the US are a perfect example of speaking softly and showing the big stick!
Reply
Steven Pham
1/14/2016 04:33:39 pm
In the video, it is throughly explained that imperalism had a vast influence on the colonies' social, political, and economical standpoints. In the late 1800s, the U.S. expanded their economic growth by the construction of the wide systems of railroads. This allowed them to travel goods across the country tremendously quick using little resources. For the U.S. political power, they decided that they need to expand to other country so they can gain more land as their own; more lands equal more power. Though without fail, the countries the U.S. make agreements with, not always comply with them, the way they thought would happen. So sometimes, military action by the U.S. are needed to get what they want whether the other countries like it or not.
Reply
Myah Rodriguez
1/17/2016 09:43:07 pm
Hi Steven,
Reply
Steven Pham
1/18/2016 09:49:30 am
Hi Myah,
Xiaoguo Zhang
1/14/2016 04:54:27 pm
In the late 1800s and early 1900s, America tries to increase their international power with their economic developing. The country built up its military strength and became a world power. In 1898, the Spanish-American War was the key point of the United States foreign policy. After this war, the United States received Guam-Philippines and Puerto Rico from Spain. Of course, American also got the state of Hawaii in this time. America needs to get more interest in Asia. The United States opened up trade relations with Japan. In 1900, America also joined the international legations with other seven countries to invade China. The United States got “Open Door Policy” from China after this war. China remained open to American trade and influence.
Reply
Jessie Chen
1/17/2016 12:33:56 pm
I like how you explain Teddy Roosevelt's motto and the idea that “America should working quietly and patiently to achieve goals overseas but using force if necessary.” he policy is a good one, but it could also be abused in the wrong hands. In the cartoon “Civilization begins at home,” the artist conveys the idea that the United States tried to spread "civilization" to other peoples around the world, but Americans didn’t notice the things they were doing actually was uncivilized.
Reply
Steven Pham
1/17/2016 12:42:13 pm
Hi Xiaoguo,
Reply
Anteo Swenson
1/17/2016 07:29:22 pm
Hello Xiaoguo. I do agree that during the period of the 1800's and 1900's the foreign policy actions taken by the US were guided by economic interests, as you said. However, I think it's important to remember the circumstances the other colonizer nations were living, since this is what facilitated the expansionist actions taken by the US.
Reply
Wenli Zhou
1/17/2016 10:30:52 pm
HI Xiaoguo,
Reply
Gabriel Alcantara
1/17/2016 11:40:41 pm
Although, just like you said, the Big Stick Policy is really effective, I believe that the speaking softly part of the proverb is something that that comes after showing the "stick." The possibilities of creating allies after showing how powerful a country is makes the ability to "speak softly" also very important in order to extend your "foreign domain."
Reply
Jessie Chen
1/14/2016 09:28:23 pm
In the late 1800s and early 1900s, the United States started to become a world power by getting involved in other countries’ affairs. For example, the United States intervened in China and Morocco where the Europeans already had influence, trying to get equal access in those countries. During that Period, President Teddy Roosevelt sent the American battle fleet on a worldwide voyage of circumnavigation from December 1907 to February 1909. The purpose of the fleet deployment was multifaceted. Ostensibly, it represented American goodwill while the fleet visited numerous countries. However, it also implicitly demonstrated that the United States had great power on navy after its triumph in the Spanish-American War, with possessions that included Guam, the Philippines, and Puerto Rico. Meanwhile, Hawaii also became a state of the U.S.
Reply
Xiaoguo Zhang
1/17/2016 03:22:59 pm
I like your example to explain the United States was becoming a world power. The turning point is that American start interesting “far east”, such as China, Philippines and Japan. In the Late 1800s and early 1900s, most of imperialism power want to share interest in Asia, especially “Far East”. United States joined this group, and its board a ship to world power.
Reply
Abhisheak Sharma
1/17/2016 05:16:45 pm
Hey Jessie
Reply
Gabriel Alcantara
1/17/2016 11:52:43 pm
Although it is true that the US enters other countries because of their personal desire and profitable needs, I don't believe that entering a country for personal gain is unjustifiable if done correctly. If a country "invades" another country's economic structure, but creates industries with fair pay and good working conditions, that could actually boost the local economy, and better the lives of many people who were jobless before the "invasion."
raymond najar
1/17/2016 07:08:24 pm
I think at the time it was smart to send a huge fleet around the world to show off our power and who we were as a nation. After being a colony ourselves it could have showed other nations that were still just begining that they could too become just like us.
Reply
Anteo Swenson
1/17/2016 07:41:57 pm
Hi Jessie. I don't think the United States became a world power by getting involved in other countries' affairs, it certainly influenced, but I believe it was also a consequence tied to other factors. Also, the messianic mentality implemented by the Monroe Doctrine, was something that influenced enormously the US' expansion and its justification.
Reply
Christian Trinidad
1/17/2016 10:16:14 pm
hello jessie
Reply
Yumi Okawara
1/14/2016 10:01:20 pm
I enjoyed watching the video and it indicated that imperialism had a huge influence on colonies’ economic, political, and social. As Allen Sens said during the video, there is Neo-Imperialism now, but we do not see over towards direct to military occupation rule for long periods of time. Also, he mentioned, “is all about structures of a control and international institution such as world bank and international monetary fund.”
Reply
Michael P Stevens
1/14/2016 11:55:37 pm
I agree. The video was very helpful in terms of providing a visual for how imperialists attempt to place controls on a colony. It was interesting to know that colonizers oppress others by means of political, economic, and social control. The problems that a colony has becomes threefold: they need a new government, a new economic infrastructure, and reclaim their identity culturally. This would be a monumental task for any nation, and it would require strong and intelligent leaders to step up. Otherwise, there might be chaos and instability as a result.
Reply
raymond najar
1/17/2016 07:13:52 pm
Interesting what you said about Japan and how it was through the 70's. One thing ive always wondered was why did we not help build Japan back up and leave. Fix the damage we caused and get out instead of staying as long as we have we have definately over satyed our welcome.
Reply
Christian Trinidad
1/17/2016 10:04:29 pm
Hey Yumi!
Reply
Christian Trinidad
1/14/2016 10:26:09 pm
In 1898 the treaty of paris was signed ending the Spanish-American war and giving the United states control over Guam , Puerto Rico and the Philippines , Cuba was granted independence but the United States still had a strong military presents. With the annexation of Hawaii and recent acquisition of Alaska the United States was on its way to becoming the next major imperial power. With the industrial revolution already past businesses and factories were in full production mode with the help of the assembly line, products could be made on a large scale so naturally trade began with other countries increasing the nations GDP. Having territory in the pacific, such as Guam , Samoa and the Philippines, helped not only from a military but a trade stand point. As goods traveled to Asia these ports became increasingly useful for ships to stop rest and reload. The year is 1901 enter rough rider Teddy Roosevelt and his famous quote on foreign policy “ speak softly and carry a big stick” meaning everything can be solved non violently unless it cant. This policy led him to Panama and the building of the Panama canal which vastly cut down on the time period of trade. Rossevelt’s “Big stick policy” must have been effective because he is credited with ending the Russo-Japan war and even received a nobel peace prize.
Reply
Yumi Okawara
1/17/2016 02:00:06 am
Hi, Christian! I like how you analyzed about imperialism and enjoyed reading about Hawaii or other places which was controlled by the United States. I agree with your statement that the United States helped and supported other countries which are increasing the nation’s GDP. I actually did not know a country which is Philippines was protected by the United States like you mentioned “Having territory in the pacific, such as Guam, Samoa and the Philippines, helped not only from a military but a trade stand point.”
Reply
Thu-Thao Ho
1/17/2016 03:21:31 pm
The cartoon analysis is incredible, I did not see it that way the first time I looked at it. I agree wholeheartedly that although the United States acts as the leading power and world police, within the nation itself are cries for help that are not being heard. In the United States alone there is poverty, there is disputes over immigration, and there are environmental issues that are not yet resolved. Though the media does inform the public on the crisis within the nation, little is being done to address the issue at hand. It is understanding that as a leading power one must provide assistance to others, but sending troops to war does not necessarily resolve the conflict. In fact, most of the time this is how the United States gets itself entangled in wars that had nothing to do with it in the first place. Wars cost billions of US dollars, instead of using that money for overseas wars the US should place that fund into cancer research to help the people that are in need of a cure.
Reply
Anteo Swenson
1/17/2016 07:57:27 pm
Hi Christian. I agree with you, the industrial revolution was definitely something that boosted, and facilitated the expansion of the US as an empire. However, it was also the repercussions of the industrial revolution in the colonizers nations, that facilitated the expansionism of the US' foreign policy.
Reply
Misa Toyoura
1/17/2016 10:49:06 pm
Hi, Christian!
Sharelle Smith
1/14/2016 10:29:45 pm
The cartoonist depiction of Emperialism I believed was pretty accurate. All empires in history in some shape or form would present a pretty picture of what they thought were helpful ways of making a country better. In the end it would all result in the decimation of the existing culture and religion. Resources are almost if not always stolen. In many cases the threat would not be cause of the current empire at had, but a smoke and screen of "you better watch out for that place over there, now turn your back while I steal all of your silverware". Teddy Roosevelts quote " Speak softly with a big stick" with out a doubt confirms that in order to have control you must remind the future colony that you wish to take over of what threats they will face if they don't obey. A passive aggressive act. It works very well. If not the United States would not have it's gift of the Panamal Canal. The same location that is used today to harbor our military forces. The U.S is the strongest military force to date in South America. In order to have influence you want to brain wash the people you want to have control over. Language culture, history,customs, and traditions are what bring people closer together. You want there to be as much turmoil and conflict as possible so if you can have the locals split on their ideas, it will be harder for them to unite and rebel successfully. In the Middle East depending on who you are talking to they either agree or disagree with the U.S being there. Those that disagree are not blinded by the fact that the natural resources there are being stolen.
Reply
Mark De Martini
1/15/2016 06:28:46 pm
Sharelle,
Reply
sharelle smith
1/17/2016 11:41:55 pm
Thats funny that you say U.S is lousy empire. I had to laugh because in class when that was mentioned over and over I thought to myself U.S is an empire? I never knew that!?! bwahahaha! Still confused smh.
JeeSoo Lee
1/17/2016 07:32:19 pm
Hi Sharelle,
Reply
Luis Ballesteros
1/17/2016 09:32:57 pm
This is so true, the UK Museums are filled with many treasures from various countries they colonized or attempted to colonize. For example, a large part of the Egyptian treasures do not reside in Egypt but in England.
sharelle smith
1/17/2016 11:30:33 pm
There is the book that my friend was reading that is called "the lies my teacher taught me". It talks about how history for the u.s is taken from eurocentric point of view. I'm pretty sure europe and u.s isnt the only countries to destroy the history of the places they take over. It does make me think how much history is lost when there are wars and museums and artifacts are getting blown up. They were showing how artifacts are being destroyed in the Mosul museum in Syria and Iraq (U.S probably bombed and destroyed more of their fair share). This saddens me because history is for everyone.
Abhisheak Sharma
1/14/2016 11:19:28 pm
The United States wanted its control in countries which they felt was in the best interest for the United States to expand its economic and political influences on them. It started to occur in the early 1900's when a multiple of countries which were close nearby the United States. For example In the Philippines when Spanish rule was in effect and the citizens of Philippines wanted their own independence. The United States stepped in and helped the citizens achieve what they desired. When the Spanish had been defeated and sent out of control, the US didn’t leave from the Philippines. The US government wanted to stay put in Philippines because of their own political and economic benefits.
Reply
Michael P Stevens
1/14/2016 11:42:55 pm
I agree. The policy is a good one, but it could also be abused in the wrong hands. For example, a leader with mal intentions may use our military as a backdrop to bully other countries into getting what we want. However, this is also in essence what we are doing currently. Also, North Korea is doing something similar as well. They believe that having an impressive military force will force other nations to give them what they want.
Reply
Jessie Chen
1/17/2016 12:20:56 pm
I like how you explain Teddy Roosevelt's motto and the example of the Panama Canal. I agree that sometimes the idea is great, but it might misuse by wrong decider. However, there still have some countries using this kind of way in nowadays. But it was interesting to know that colonizers oppress others by means of political, economic, and social control.
Reply
Citlalli Flores
1/17/2016 09:13:33 pm
I liked your post and how you explained Teddy Roosevelt’s motto. I also have to agree with you when you said that the US will take control over other countries for their own benefit. I think that the US is wrong for doing this because the US started off as a colony too. That’s when we have to look at the saying the “history repeats itself”.
Reply
Misa Toyoura
1/17/2016 10:53:25 pm
Hi, Abhisheak!
Ralph Balaoing
1/14/2016 11:30:31 pm
In the late 1800s the “American empire” was born as the United States strove to become a global power. This began in the early 1800s with the United States becoming the 1st country to open trade with Japan. The next major event was the annexation of the Philippines, Guam, and Puerto Rico following the Spanish American War. During which the United States established an open door policy in regards to China. All these events had one thing in common the use of a military force. In Japan Commodore Perry entered Tokyo Bay with a fleet and reached the trade agreement, more or less, ‘holding the gun to Japans’ head.’ In China military force was used to put down the Boxer rebellion in order to protect United States trade interest.
Reply
Xiaoguo Zhang
1/17/2016 03:30:30 pm
I agree with your idea that tread is the most important point of American to become a global power. United States used different way to build his imperialist power from British. The British colonized to influence and control the local politics and economic. United States try to entry the local market to gain more interest and control the local government.
Reply
Abhisheak Sharma
1/17/2016 05:46:16 pm
Hey Ralph,
Reply
JeeSoo Lee
1/17/2016 08:05:47 pm
Hi Ralph,
Reply
Mary Rasooli
1/18/2016 12:12:59 am
Hi JeeSoo!
Citlalli Flores
1/17/2016 09:26:37 pm
Hi Ralph! I agree with the way you depicted the cartoon. Instead of worrying for its own citizens, the US has often put aside the needs of the citizens to become involved in another countries’ affairs. I also agree with you that there are parallels with modern day, especially with the way people of color are treated in this country.
Reply
Wenli Zhou
1/17/2016 10:38:50 pm
Hi Ralph,
Reply
Michael P Stevens
1/14/2016 11:37:50 pm
Some of the methods that the United States used to expand its political influence around the world include granting the Philippines their independence. As a result of the Spanish-American war, the Treaty of Paris granted the United States authority over the Philippines. In less than fifty years, America would grant the Philippines their independence. This political act ensured that the Philippines would be a staunch ally in the future, and currently, the Philippines have the highest pro-American sentiment than any other country. In addition, this move allowed the U.S. Navy to keep and build naval bases in the area. This helps to serve our military interests for security and operations.
Reply
Misa Toyoura
1/17/2016 11:03:03 pm
Hi,Michael!
Reply
Mary Rasooli
1/18/2016 12:28:42 am
Hi Michael!
Reply
Madalyn Hart
1/14/2016 11:37:59 pm
Seeing as the United States in itself was a once a colony fighting for independence from its controlling imperial power (Great Britain), its interesting to learn that later on in history we too made it our main mission to expand our borders and territories by the same method that was once put onto us. As explained in the video, once an imperial power has established political, economic and social power over a territory, the imperial power now benefits from and controls all trade and recourses for their benefit. In colonizing a territory they ultimately want to make is as close in resemblance and function to their own government back home. A good example of this would not only be the United States and Great Britain, but also the United States claiming Hawaii as a U.S territory (and soon to be state). Like the British did onto us, the United States took full control of Hawaii for their coal recourses, ultimately taking over and influencing everything from its language, jobs, culture, political standings, and economy. The Panama Canal was another beneficial strategy for the United States in that it gave them quick access to the Pacific and Atlantic oceans for trade and travel. It was a lot quicker to go through the panama canal than it was to sent a ship all around the Americas to New York. To this day the native language of Hawaii’s natives is going extinct, and its culture is slowly being lost.
Reply
Michael P Stevens
1/14/2016 11:48:32 pm
You have some interesting points, but I disagree that a country should not control another territory if they cannot control their own because every society is going to have social problems such as crime, healthcare, and discrimination. In any society, there are going to be problems to fix, societies (like people) will never be perfect. In that sense, I don't think it would be fair to say that a country can't participate internationally just because their society is not perfect.
Reply
JeeSoo Lee
1/17/2016 07:51:15 pm
Hi Madalyn,
Reply
Megan Fernandez
1/17/2016 11:57:30 pm
Hi Madalyn,
Reply
Misa Toyoura
1/14/2016 11:38:02 pm
In foreign policy, Roosevelt wanted to make the United States a global power by increasing its influence worldwide. He led the effort to secure rights to build the Panama Canal, one of the greatest engineering feats at that time. He also issued his "corollary" to the Monroe Doctrine, which established the United States as the "policeman" of the Western Hemisphere. Not only that, in 1905, Roosevelt offered to mediate the conflict between Russia and Japan, two nations that had been embroiled in a yearlong war over commercial rights in northern China and Korea. Roosevelt favored the Japanese, but feared that American commercial interests in China would be jeopardized no matter which country won the war. Japanese and Russian delegates met with the president on board an U.S. Naval ship in Oyster Bay and later in Portsmouth, New Hampshire.
Reply
Steven Pham
1/17/2016 01:25:58 pm
Hi Misa,
Reply
Misa Toyoura
1/17/2016 11:15:24 pm
Hi, Steven! Thanks for your response. The policy was definitely effective, and prevented many wars that was about to happen. I think it's important to deal with things with other nations in a non-violent way because the country will not only lose the power, but also lose the tons of innocent lives.
Citlalli Flores
1/17/2016 08:07:22 pm
I really liked your response and I have to agree with you that countries should try to help out their own citizens before getting involved with issues that are ongoing in other countries. That would be in a perfect world though. I think some countries have benefited from the intervention of the US.
Reply
Misa Toyoura
1/17/2016 11:08:11 pm
Hi, Citialli! Thank you for your response! Yes, America can of course get involved in other countries if needed. However, often times they make problems itself even worse, which really sucks! I think America needs to address their own problems (they have so MANY) before getting into others business too deep! I also agree that they have helped some cases!
Megan Fernandez
1/17/2016 11:41:03 pm
I appreciate your commentary on how Roosevelt understood how to manipulate the threat of war and presumption of power in his foreign policy. And, I see that you say that Roosevelt was effective in implementing his policy as president. I’m wondering if you agree with how he brandished his power in Latin America.
Reply
Citlalli Flores
1/14/2016 11:44:53 pm
The US in many ways has colonized different territories and countries for its own interest and not the interest of the people. For example, the US “helped” the Philippines gain independence from Spain, but soon after, they governed the islands as an imperial power. Another example are the Hawaiian Islands, and how they were annexed by the US. The US was able to obtain Hawaii after raising the tariff on sugar. This is an example on how an imperial power puts their needs first before the people who inhibit the colonies. Regarding Teddy Roosevelt’s motto, “speak softly, and carry a big stick”, for foreign policy, I think it means to act out generously but be prepared to take control. In a sense, his foreign policy and tactics did work and made the US rise as an imperial power. That does not mean that some of the colonies/territories stayed under the control of the US. The Philippines later gained independence from the US. Is it right to use force if people don’t cooperate with what you want? Not really, especially if you’re an empire and the enemy is a colony.
Reply
Yumi Okawara
1/17/2016 02:25:38 am
Hi, Citlalli! I enjoyed reading your statement and strong agree with motto of Teddy whom you think of. His motto “speak softly, and carry a big stick” is truly in need of diplomatic relations with other countries because I think it is easy to take a control over negotiable success when there is something happened. Like you mentioned already “it means to act out generously but be prepared to take control.”
Reply
raymond najar
1/17/2016 07:19:13 pm
I agree with you about how we overstayed our welcome in the Philipines. I t was wrong how we did'nt jus liberate them adn leave them to grow on their own. We had more intrests than just helping the people of the islands the island was in a prime areas to set up naval bases so we took advantage and that was wrong of us.
Reply
Megan Fernandez
1/17/2016 11:35:12 pm
Hey Citlalli, I was wondering what you were referring to in your last sentence when you said it was accurate for our history too. Were you referring to members of the Ku Klux Klan lynching African Americans?
Reply
Luis Ballesteros
1/14/2016 11:50:31 pm
I believe that during the 1800s and 1900s the US exercised a lot of very common imperial traits specially in the Asia Pacific Region pretty heavily. Starting with Japan, who was very isolated at the turn of the 1900s and the US was constantly showing up at their front door with navy ships trying to flex its Military might and ending with the annexation of Hawaii as well as the Philippines. The reasons for a lot fo these annexations were mostly economical, with Japan I feel that they almost forced them to trade with the US or there would be consequences and with the Philippines they pretty much took the cultural way. Which is why in the Philippines they speak English.
Reply
Jessie Chen
1/17/2016 12:29:15 pm
I like how you explain Teddy Roosevelt's motto and the example of the Russian. It was interesting to know that colonizers oppress others by means of political, economic, and social control. In the cartoon “Civilization begins at home,” I agree that it is the scene about slavery. It might symbolize the necessity for both political and economic assets to go to domestic catastrophes such as injustice instead of to foreign adventure such as wars.
Reply
Lin Tian
1/17/2016 11:35:48 pm
Hi Luis,
Reply
Gabriel Alcantara
1/14/2016 11:51:07 pm
The United States is held as example for many countries nowadays. It is a big powerhouse, with an excellent educational system, safe streets, good paying jobs, the value of the dollar, and many other things. However, things did not magically occur in order to get the United States going. It was a process that took many years, and many efforts overseas to get to the point where the United States stands today. An example of these efforts is the annexation of the Hawaiian Islands. Since early 19th century, America gradually came to regard Hawaiian Islands as an extension of the Pacific Coast. A tiny minority of white planters led by Sanford B. Dole organized a successful revolt against Queen Liliuokalani in 1893 in order to annex Hawaii to the United States so that there would be no more sugar tariffs. Although due to Cleveland’s refusal to sign the annexation treaty, in 1898 Dole served as territorial governor and got what he wanted. The United States got an excellent strategical bay, while also increasing its trading capabilities. The Hawaiian Islands are now a big landmark for tourism, and serves the United States as a profitable territory. Japan also had it’s fair share with the United States. Teddy Roosevelt's motto "Speak softly, and carry a big stick," explains what happened in the Japanese sea in July 8. 1853. Commodore Matthew Perry of the United States Navy, commanding a squadron of two steamers and two sailing vessels, sailed into Tokyo harbor in order to force and demand a treaty permitting trade and the opening of Japanese ports to U.S. merchant ships. This is a prime example of Roosevelt’s mojo. The United States did not attack Japan, they just “spoke” to them while showing their “stick”(the steamers) in order to get what they wanted. Such need for expansion and trading power made the US turn blind to its own problems at home, which is something that the “Civilization Begins At Home” cartoon talks about. That is an issue that happens even today, where there are so many issues in certain parts of the country, and the government keeps its attention to the outside world by sending military to other parts of the world, while some of the money spent in order to improve its already advanced educational system.
Reply
Myah Rodriguez
1/17/2016 09:26:14 pm
Hi Gabriel,
Reply
Lin Tian
1/14/2016 11:52:53 pm
The main methods that America used to expand is that American had an mission to protect liberty, peace and freedom. Due to Industrial revolution, America needs a broad international market. For example, American business owners entered into Hawaii, and increased the trading between American and Hawaii. American as the foreign power has a dominant influence in Hawaiian’s politician. Those business mans and local Hawaiian elites forced the King to sign a new constitution in favor of trading, and eventually imprisoned Queen Lili’uokalani. Hawaii later became part of U.S. territory.
Reply
Myah Rodriguez
1/17/2016 09:31:48 pm
Hi Lin,
Reply
Lin Tian
1/18/2016 12:06:10 am
Hi Myah,
JeeSoo Lee
1/17/2016 01:58:15 pm
United States in itself has always been an empire, from settling in New England and pushing outwards and more west and violating Native Americans and Mexicans in the process. In the 1890s, the new influx of immigrants and failure of the European bank led Americans in anxiety and economic depression. American Imperialism was mainly fueled by economic interests. In order to bring themselves out of the depression, they decided to dominate the seas and build a canal in Panama in Central America.
Reply
Abhisheak Sharma
1/17/2016 06:23:52 pm
Hey Jeesoo,
Reply
raymond najar
1/17/2016 07:04:01 pm
The United States was once a product of being a colony, the nation grew up from being a colony to being the ones colonizing other countries. They learned from one of the biggest empires and learned how to do it pretty darn well. By colonizing places around the world that were strategic toot hem b means of war or certain resources its always been a strategy they have used. One example is of Panama it was an economic type of colonization, the interest of the Panama Canal being built is what made it such a hot spot for the United States. It was going to connect the Atlantic and Pacific shipping routes and of course we wanted control of that and of all of its benefits.
Reply
Luis Ballesteros
1/17/2016 09:31:10 pm
Hi Raymond,
Reply
Lin Tian
1/17/2016 11:22:58 pm
I think that U.S. tried to colonize or used many nations resources without first consent from the nation's government leader. When the government disagreed to listen to what America told it to do, America's policy had always turned into either supporting a democratic rebelling revolution to overthrow the leader or provide military and economic aid to the enemies of that nation. U.S. has been performing this type of foreign strategies for a very long period of time.
Reply
Megan Fernandez
1/17/2016 10:40:27 pm
During the early 1900s, the United States expanded its economic and political influence by gaining territory in the Asian Pacific and gaining an upper hand in Latin America. By 1899, the United States had annexed Hawaii (1898) and acquired all of Spain’s colonies outside of Africa, including the Philippines, Guam, and Puerto Rico and gained influence over Cuba as a U.S. protectorate. These territories held substantial roles in providing the United States a foothold in foreign markets, with Cuba and Puerto Rico serving as a gateway to Latin American markets, and Hawaii, Guam, and the Philippines giving the United States greater access to the market in China. The driving role of trade and American economics in the expansionist efforts of the United States during the late 1800s and beginning of the twentieth century is unmistakable. Access to the Asian and Latin American markets gave America a source to sell its products and a necessary means to pull itself out of the financial depressions following the Panic of 1893. The Ohio Senator Albert Beveridge proclaimed that American commerce “must be with Asia. The Pacific is our ocean… where shall we turn for consumers of our surplus? Geography answers the question. China is our natural customer.”
Reply
sharelle smith
1/17/2016 11:37:44 pm
Hi Megan,
Reply
Mary Rasooli
1/18/2016 07:59:09 pm
The unites states expanded its economic and overall political power and influence by seeking global expansion and the Imperialism through the conquest of foreign countries. The US chose to expand its physical territory as a means of displaying immense power and global authority. An example being the US’s relationship with the Philippines which was an effect of the Spanish American War. The war was initiated partly because of Cuban fight for liberation from Spanish control, as well as the sensationalism of cuban authorities and practices and the sinking of the USS Maine. When the Spanish-American war was fought, it was fought to establish influence and power; which is exactly what happened. Whether or not it was just, the US managed to force Spain to sign off several territories (through the Treaty of Paris) including the Philippines for a low cost, inherently establishing the US’s imperial power. Having control over so many territories allowed for the US to make many economic and political gains. With the Philippines, the US had established many American military bases, making concrete the US’ presence in the Philippines, allowing the Filipino resources and economic gains at the hands of the US.
Reply
Michelle Bounkousohn
3/27/2016 11:53:37 am
Imperialism or colonization is a process of exploitation and hegemony that involves the exploitation and control of a colony by a colonial power. With the race to colonize the world during the 16th to 20th centuries, the United States and other European countries found it beneficial to their principles of mercantilism to control their colonies and extract the greatest profits from them by only allowing them to trade with their respective colonial powers, often instituting genocide, cultural and social suppression, and maintaining hegemony through acts of political, social, and physical violence.
Reply
Leave a Reply. |
Poli 3 - DeAnza
Winter 2016 |