Imperialism: by Lauren Flashcards
Why did the United States become involved in imperialism?
Economic and technological growth caused political leaders to look for new land for the future
Define cultural imperialism, and provide at least one example.
Humanitarianism: the belief that it’s one’s duty to spread around a superior culture; the belief that one’s country is superior to all others; European and Asian powers spread their culture; Example: European countries spreading Christianity
Define military imperialism, and provide at least one example.
Countries wanted to be prepared with military bases for future wars. They built them in colonies to spread their influence; Example: The United States controlled Panama partially to build military bases there
Define economic imperialism, and provide at least one example.
Population growth and technological advancement caused a mainland’s natural resources to run thin. Imperialism helped get more; some areas could grow special cash crops that could be sold for more money; countries could establish markets and trade with colonies; Example: Britain made the 13 colonies only trade with the east India trading company
Explain the causes and effects of the Spanish American War
Causes: Americans wanted more land; yellow journalism caused Spain to be accused of sinking the USS Maine
Effects: Spain looses colonies; United States gains territory; some countries obtain freedom (eventually)
How was Theodore Roosevelt involved in the Spanish American War?
He lead the Rough Riders Calvary to capture Cuba
Describe the building of the Panama Canal. Things to consider: reasons for building it, how it works, problems faced when it was constructed, the effects of the canal, etc.
The Panama canal was built because ships needed a quicker way to get from the Atlantic to the Pacific. Roosevelt lead troops to take over Panama from Columbia. The Panama canal works by using a system that pumped water into watertight chambers to get the boat to rise over mountains. Then the boats could travel across the land and get to the other side. Then water is pumped out of the chamber and the boat goes back down to sea level. Some problems that were faced were mountain ranges and bugs that transferred deadly diseases. The canal took about 10 hours to traverse. The canal also helped the US establish military bases to protect it’s territory.
Describe the acquisition of Alaska
Alaska was purchased from Russia for 7.2 million dollars. William Steward, secretary of state, led the purchase. Later on, people discovered that Alaska was rich in minerals and oil, making it a valuable part of the US econemy.
Describe the acquisition of Hawaii
American businessmen disliked having to pay the tariff to import their goods into the US. They threatened war against the Hawaiian government. Queen Liliuokalani surrendered her throne to prevent violence. Later on it was annexed into a US territory.
What are the three causes for imperialism throughout the world?
- cultural/political
- economic
- military
What were positive and negative effects of imperialism in Africa?
Positive: new infrastructure was built; less war between tribes; seward systems
Negative: Political instability; death from famine; near enslavement
Describe imperialism in India. Things to consider: the imperializing nation, the effects of imperialism in India, how the locals rebelled (Sepoy Rebellion), etc.
Britain colonised India under the East India Trading Company. Many people