Final answer:
U.S. imperialism strongly influenced Latin American governments in the early 1900s by imposing economic dependence and territorial control, hampering local industries, and resulting in political and social ramifications that persist into modern times.
Step-by-step explanation:
The U.S. imperialism significantly influenced the formation of governments in Latin America during the early 1900s. The United States' expansion of its political, economic, and military influence, also referred to as neo-imperialism, played a crucial role. While newly independent Latin American countries faced national sovereignty, they were heavily indebted to foreign investors and reliant on exporting raw materials. This economic dominance by U.S. and European powers resulted in a dependency model, where Latin American countries would export commodities like coffee, beef, and sugar in return for imported industrial goods.
Moreover, intangible exports such as the United States' democratic ideals were juxtaposed against its realpolitik strategies in the region, often skewing towards economic gain and strategic positioning over spreading democracy. U.S. foreign policy during this period also pursued direct territorial acquisition, as seen in the annexation of territories like Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines. This created a dichotomy where the U.S. economy and military might benefited while the affected regions struggled with the impacts of dependence and direct control.
Despite certain tangible benefits such as infrastructure and trade opportunities, the long term effects of American neo-imperialism included economic instability, political puppeteering, and social implications that would continue to shape relations into the 21st century. The legacy of such imperialism has been deeply ingrained in the politics and economies of many Latin American nations.