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

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

3. 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

4. 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

5. 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

6. 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

7. 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.

8. 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