Answer:
The war against Spain in 1898 played a significant role in shaping the foreign policy of the United States and moving it away from its traditional isolationist stance.
Step-by-step explanation:
There were several key factors that contributed to this shift:
1. Imperialist Ambitions: The war with Spain resulted in the acquisition of several territories by the United States, including Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines. These new acquisitions presented the U.S. with a challenge of governing and managing overseas territories, which required a more engaged and interventionist foreign policy.
2. Economic Interests: The United States was experiencing rapid industrialization and expansion during the late 19th century. The war with Spain opened up new economic opportunities in terms of trade and investment in the newly acquired territories and other regions around the world. This economic motivation pushed the U.S. to engage in international affairs to protect and advance its economic interests.
3. Global Power Competition: The late 19th century marked a period of intensified global power competition, particularly with European nations. The United States recognized that it needed to assert itself on the international stage to safeguard its interests and maintain a competitive edge. The war with Spain demonstrated the need for a more active and assertive foreign policy to secure its position as a global power.
4. Public Opinion and Media Influence: The war against Spain received significant media coverage, and the stories of Spanish colonial oppression, particularly in Cuba, sparked public sympathy and outrage in the United States. This public sentiment, coupled with the media's portrayal of the conflict, influenced policymakers to take a more interventionist approach and address humanitarian concerns abroad.
5. Naval Power: The Spanish-American War highlighted the importance of a strong naval presence in securing overseas territories and projecting power globally. The United States emerged from the conflict with a newfound understanding of the significance of naval power, leading to an increased emphasis on building and maintaining a modern navy to protect its interests around the world.
These factors collectively contributed to the United States adopting a less isolationist foreign policy after the war with Spain. The country began to engage more actively in international affairs, expand its overseas presence, and assert itself as a global power. This shift marked a turning point in U.S. foreign policy and set the stage for its increased involvement in global politics in the 20th century.