US Becomes a World Imperial Power US had always sought to expand its boundaries Imperialism is defined as a strong nation extending political, military or economic control over a weak nation European powers had carved up Africa and Asia for economic gain Three factors motivated US to become an imperial power

US industry produced more than it could sell at home, foreign markets were sought Leading this charge was Indiana Senator Albert Beveridge By 1900, US exports had increased over 600% making US an economic power

Because other world powers were doing it and also to protect our new global merchant fleet, many in US felt a military build up was needed. Leading this charge was Admiral Alfred “Skipper” Mahan Mahan advocated the build up of a modern fleet of steel hulled ships and strategically located overseas bases By 1900, US had 3rd largest naval fleet in world

Belief in Anglo-Saxon superiority and Social Darwinism justifies US imperialism to some They sought to “Christianize the savage world” Not all in US were on board with idea, some opposed it for financial reasons, while others opposed it for moral reasons.

US Seizes Hawaii Hawaiian Islands had long been strategically vital 1875 treaty allows Hawaiian sugar into US with no tariff 1887, sugar companies force King to grant voting rights to land owners only and give up land to build a naval base in Pearl Harbor

King Kalakaua Pearl Harbor

McKinley Tariff places tax on Hawaiian sugar Sugar companies try to convince US to annex islands and make Hawaii a US territory

1891, King dies Queen Lil takes over, 1893, sugar companies, with help of US Ambassador Stevens organize overthrow of Queen They take over, Sanford Dole as president President Cleveland blames Stevens for overthrow and demands Queen to put back in power Dole refuses to give up power, Cleveland unwilling to use force so US recognizes new govt. but does not annex the islands President McKinley annexes islands in 1898