Era: The U.S. Becomes a World Power (1890-1920)

The U.S. became a world power by: Extending its power over other territories and nations (Imperialism) Helping to win WWI

Reasons for Imperialism Industrial Revolution After the Civil War, U.S. industry grew rapidly and industrialists looked overseas for: New sources of raw materials More markets to sell goods New places to invest money

Reasons for Imperialism Closing of the American Frontier By 1890 the West was populated enough to be considered “closed” As a result, U.S. manufacturers looked overseas for new economic opportunities

Reasons for Imperialism Examples of European Nations European nations were engaged in imperialism England—Suez Canal, India, Africa France—Africa & Middle East Russia—East Asia Germany—Pacific & Africa European imperialism stimulated American imperialism

Reasons for Imperialism American Nationalism Expansionists urged the U.S. to take overseas colonies through imperialism Captain Alfred Mahan’s book The Influence of Sea Power Upon History urged the U.S. to: Expand foreign markets Build a powerful navy Acquire overseas bases

Reasons for Imperialism Social Darwinism Many Americans believed it was America’s duty to “elevate uncivilized people” around the world They used Darwin’s theory of survival of the fittest to justify their ideas Social Darwinism states that uncivilized cultures can’t take care of themselves and will soon die off. Therefore, it is the duty of the civilized nations to take over and control them.

Reasons for Imperialism President Teddy Roosevelt Urged European nations to stay out of the Western Hemisphere Roosevelt’s “Big Stick” Policy The U.S. would take on the role of regional policeman in the Western Hemisphere Allowed U.S to extend its power over Central and South America