1. Introduction to Imperialism
Chapter 22 Section 1
Introduction to Imperialism

3. What is Imperialism? Imperialism
Policy of stronger nations extending their political, economic, or military control over weaker territories and people
Where did it occur?
Asia – especially China
Africa
Latin America

4. Why Americans favored Imperialism (expanding overseas)?
1. Economic Interests
-This would increase US financial prosperity
-Access to raw materials & markets to sell to
2. Military Interests
-Having a strong military would ensure power
3. Belief in Cultural Superiority
-Many in U.S. thought their race, gov’t, religion, culture was better than others

5. Isolationism
Before the late 1800s, the U.S. generally practiced isolationism: the policy of avoiding involvement in the affairs of other nations
By the late 1800s, many began to believe the U.S. must expand in order to stay strong economically.

6. Seward’s “Folly” Many criticized this “folly” (mistake)
Sec. of State William Seward arranged purchase of Alaska from Russia for $7.2 million (2 cents/acre) $114 million in 2012
Many criticized this “folly” (mistake)
Seward saw larger picture in Alaska
- Became a source of fur, timber, minerals, and later gold

9. U.S. Expands cont….
2. Annexed Midway Islands -halfway point between U.S. and Japan
3. Hawaii becomes a Territory 1898
-American missionaries were in Hawaii since early 1800’s
-plated cash crops such as Sugar Cane
-Sugar Planters became very powerful in government.
-”Bayonet Constitution” was signed granting more power to legislature (controlled by the planters)
-1891 King died and Queen proposed a restoration of power to Monarchy
-Planters rebelled and the U.S. sent 150 marines to help with the revolt
-U.S. annexes Hawaii

10. U.S. Seeks Trade with Japan and China
Japan wanted to remain isolated from Western World
-Commodore Perry tries unsuccessfully to establish “friendship, commerce, and a supply of coal and provisions”
-returns with 7 warships and gifts for Japan to show benefits of trade
-Japan Opens to trade with United States

11. The United States in China
Other imperialist nations already involved in China (Japan, France, Britain, Germany, Russia) – Each with own Spheres of Influence (economic rights and special privileges)
Sec. of State John Hay wanted Open Door Policy: No single country gets monopoly on Chinese trade. Most Nations: Acceptable agreement
Angry Chinese, upset with many foreigners – Led to the Boxer Rebellion – foreigners killed and rebellion put down by force