The United States’ motivations for expansion in the late 19th century were largely driven by economic and ideological factors. On the economic front, the US was eager for access to new markets, sources of labor and resources, as well as creating new international trade opportunities. Additionally, US leaders wanted to establish a strong presence as a world power and demonstrate its superiority in the “struggle of races” by pursuing imperialistic policies. On the ideological front, the US was predicated on the belief of Manifest Destiny, a belief that Americans had a divine right to spread across the continent, while also assimilating indigenous peoples.
The primary motivation behind US expansion in the late 19th century was likely economic advantages. By invading foreign countries, the US was able to gain access to new markets that would benefit its own economy significantly. Additionally, by controlling other countries’ resources, the US was able to create an empire and establish itself as a world superpower.
I would have sided with the anti-imperialists. Anti-imperialists opposed US expansion, arguing that it represented a violation of both international law and human rights. Additionally, anti-imperialists believed it was wrong to pursue such policies that ran counter to the US’s democratic principles. They argued that US expansion would ultimately harm the US’s reputation in the world. I believe the US should not seek to use its power to invade foreign countries, even if it is done in pursuit of economic or other tangible advantages. I believe there is a moral and ethical responsibility to respect other nations, and that US imperialism threatened to erode that respect. I believe the US should focus more on promoting democracy, respect and tolerance instead of force, coercion and domination. I believe that US imperialism was ultimately a form of colonialism, wherein the native populations were viewed without dignity, instead of with mutual respect.