Factors that motivated America’s new imperialism after the Civil War

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Factors that motivated America’s new imperialism after the Civil War

American Imperialism refers to the political, economic, military, and cultural influence of America on other nations that are independent and being ruled by its indigenous people.(Perlo, pg15) When the civil war ended, America had experienced a lot of economic loses. There was massive destruction of property, and many people died as well. For this reason, America saw that it is best to embark on imperialism to recover from the damage of the civil war.

The main reason for Americas Imperialism was to expand its market and economic ties with the rest of the world. It also sought to get raw materials from other parts of the world for their industries. For this reason, they ventured into Pacific Asia. The USA had established a thriving sugar industry, and this increased its connection with the rest of the world. Hence, they exploited the vast Asian market to improve its economy.

Another reason for American Imperialism was that it wanted to be fully politically independent and acquire new territories as well. It is for such reasons that America went to war with Spain in 1898. (Perlo, pg25) The war, which was won by the USA, ended Spanish colonial rule in America and the USA was able to acquire new territories in western Pacific and Latin America. The USA also sought to have an influence on the rest of the world in terms of making economic and social policies. They would force other countries to align their policies to those of the US to do business

Contributions Presidents Theodore Roosevelt and William Howard Taft to the Progressive Movement

The progressive movement is described as an era in which America made huge changes to its economic and political structure and policies. (May, pg21) Among the Presidents that led the nation to these changes are Theodore Roosevelt and William Howard Taft. Theodore believed that the president represented all Americans and should act in the interest of the people. It is this belief that steered his style of leadership. One major contribution he made to the progressive movement was that he became a Trust Buster. Big business consolidations were known as Trusts during this time. Theodore ensured that they did not engage in practices that would hurt other companies or consumers. He made sure that they all acted in the interest of the public.

Among his significant contributions also include the Roosevelt’s Square Deal. In this deal, he launched new laws to protect the consumers’ health and stop false advertising by producers. The laws would also work towards conserving America’s natural resources. Howard Taft was his handpicked successor to the presidency. Taft, however, was somewhat conservative in pushing the progressive agenda. This was the main reason for disagreement between the two. Taft continued pushing Theodore’s policies, including Trust Busting but was not able to lower tariffs as promised before he became president. Because of his conservative nature, Theodore withdrew his support hence splitting the Republican vote, and Wilson of the Democrats won the election. Despite their disagreements, their contributions in the progressive era are commendable and went a long way in streamlining the economy and politics of America.

Works Cited

Perlo, Victor. American Imperialism. New York, 2015. Print.

May, Ernest R. The Progressive Era. Alexandria, VA: Time-Life Books, 2014. Print.