DTW GED PREP

At the dawn of the 20th century, the United States was a prosperous and growing nation, but it had not yet established itself as a dominant world power. The nation had been primarily focused on its internal issues, such as the aftermath of the Civil War, the Reconstruction period, industrialization, and the expansion of its territories westward. These concerns, along with a strong sense of isolationism, meant that the United States had paid little attention to global affairs or foreign intervention. By 1900, the world stage was largely dominated by European powers such as Great Britain, France, Austria-Hungary, Russia, and Germany, who held significant influence over world politics and economics.

However, by the late 19th century, several factors led the United States to reconsider its stance and seek greater involvement in international affairs. One of the key motivations for the United States’ expansionist policies was economic. The nation sought new markets and trade partners, especially those that could provide natural resources not readily available in the U.S. itself. Products such as sugar, rubber, and coffee were highly sought after, and the acquisition of territories that could supply these goods would be beneficial for the American economy. Establishing access to these resources was seen as a way to bolster U.S. industries and maintain economic growth.

In addition to economic motives, the United States sought to expand its naval power. The acquisition of strategic naval bases in various parts of the world was essential to establishing the U.S. as a formidable global power. These bases would allow the U.S. Navy to project power and influence across the globe, securing the nation’s position as a key player in world affairs. The importance of a strong navy was highlighted by Alfred Thayer Mahan’s influential work, The Influence of Sea Power upon History, which argued that control of the seas was vital for national power.

Another important motivation behind U.S. imperialism at the turn of the century was the desire to assert the United States as a great power on the world stage. There was a prevailing belief among U.S. leaders and citizens that the country should prove its strength and influence, not only to protect its own interests but also to compete with European powers. This sense of national pride and ambition drove the United States to pursue colonial expansion and greater international involvement.

Between 1898 and 1903, the United States acted on these motivations by acquiring several territories. In 1898, following the Spanish-American War, the U.S. annexed Hawaii, Guam, Puerto Rico, and the Philippines. The acquisition of these territories provided the U.S. with new sources of resources, markets for trade, and strategic locations for military and naval bases. Hawaii, in particular, became a vital base for U.S. military and commercial interests in the Pacific. The Philippines, Guam, and Puerto Rico provided important footholds in Asia and the Caribbean, expanding the United States’ influence in both regions.

In addition to territorial acquisitions, the United States also took control of Cuba through the Platt Amendment, which made Cuba a U.S. protectorate. While Cuba retained its nominal independence, the U.S. was granted significant control over its foreign affairs, military presence, and economic interests. The acquisition of these territories was part of the broader goal of increasing American influence globally.

One of the most significant projects during this period was the construction of the Panama Canal, which began in the early 20th century. The canal would provide a crucial shortcut between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, allowing for faster trade and military movement. The United States played a key role in the construction of the canal, gaining control of the canal zone and solidifying its dominance in global trade routes. The Panama Canal would remain under U.S. control for most of the 20th century, further cementing the nation’s position as a major global power.

Through these actions, the United States transitioned from a nation primarily concerned with internal development to an imperial power with a significant presence on the world stage. The expansion of U.S. territory, the establishment of military and economic influence abroad, and the control of strategic trade routes marked the beginning of a new era in American foreign policy, one in which the United States would increasingly assert its power in global affairs.

THE UNITED STATES BECOMES A WORLD POWER

 Directions: Choose the best answer to the following question.

 Question 1 is based on the following political cartoon from the era of the

 Spanish–American War (1898):

1.  In the cartoon, a “goddess of liberty” heralds freedom for Cuba, Puerto Rico, and the Philippines. The man in the background represents

 A.   Europe.

 B.   the United States.

 C.  Abraham Lincoln.

 D.   the King of Spain.

Correct Answer: ✅ B. the United States
Explanation:
In political cartoons from the era of the Spanish–American War (1898), the “goddess of liberty” often symbolized American ideals like freedom and democracy. The man in the background typically represents the United States as a strong protector or liberator, supporting the spread of liberty to territories like Cuba, Puerto Rico, and the Philippines, which were affected by the war.