America became an imperialist nation at the end of the 19th century. What are some examples where the United States exerted its influence in the world?

1 Answer
Jun 30, 2017

This question has a false premise or definition of imperialism
America did not set up colonies in the classic definition of imperialism.

Explanation:

America did extent and exerted its influence. One example would be the Spanish American War. The United States freed Cuba and the Phillipines from Spanish imperialism. This countries did not become colonies but did come under the economic dominance of the United States.

Puerto Rico became a protectorate of the United States, and has had votes to both to become an independent country and a State of the Union. So far both votes have failed and Puerto Rico remains a United States Protectorate. an example of the extension of United States influence.

America used its naval power to force Japan to open up its ports to international trade. This was a clear exercise of the United States extending its influence in the world.

The United States also used trade to dominate most of Central America. Banana plantations basically served to meet the needs of America consumers. This could be taken as an example of economic imperialism.

America never became an imperialistic nation in the classic sense that many of the European nations became Empires. The United States may have dominated other countries like Cuba and The Phillipines economically but did not rule these countries or dominate them politically