Final answer:
The U.S. took over the Philippines due to a strategic military location for power projection and economic interests for trade, particularly in China. The imperialism shown was a mix of territorial for taking over land and economic for exploiting trade opportunities. The Philippine-American War ensued, involving harsh tactics on both sides, while anti-imperialists in the U.S. condemned the imperialistic actions.
Step-by-step explanation:
Why the U.S. Took Over the Philippines
The United States decided to take over the Philippines primarily due to strategic military location and economic interests. This form of imperialism can be considered both territorial imperialism for the desire of land expansion, and economic imperialism for the pursuit of trading opportunities—especially with nearby China.
American political and military strategists, including figures like Theodore Roosevelt, believed that acquiring territories in the Pacific, such as the Philippines, was crucial for establishing naval bases that could extend American military power and commerce towards Asia. Moreover, there was concern that if the U.S. did not claim the Philippines, other powers such as Japan or Germany might take control, potentially limiting American opportunities in Asia.
The Philippine-American War followed the U.S. acquisition, during which both sides employed brutal tactics. The U.S. promised economic development and self-governance to attract local support and establish its rule. Anti-imperialists in the U.S. condemned these actions, arguing the moral costs and human consequences did not justify the war or imperialistic aims.