American Jingoism in The Late Nineteenth Century: Key Influences

American jingoism in the late nineteenth century represented a significant shift in national sentiment and policy, reflecting the complex interplay of various social, political, and economic factors. As the United States emerged from the shadows of civil war and reconstruction, it began to assert itself on the global stage. This era was marked by an intense sense of nationalism, driven by a desire for expansion and influence abroad. In this essay, we will explore key influences that contributed to American jingoism during this pivotal period.

The Legacy of Manifest Destiny

One of the most profound influences on American jingoism was the legacy of Manifest Destiny. This 19th-century doctrine held that Americans were divinely ordained to expand across the North American continent. Although its primary focus was on continental expansion, its underlying principles fostered an attitude that encouraged imperialistic pursuits beyond U.S. borders. By emphasizing America's role as a "chosen nation," proponents believed it was their duty to spread democracy and civilization to other parts of the world.

Economic Motivations

The industrial revolution brought about significant changes in American society during the late nineteenth century. With increased production capabilities came heightened competition for markets and resources. As businesses sought new opportunities for growth, many Americans began to see foreign territories as potential markets for their surplus goods. The quest for new markets was fueled by:

• Overproduction: Factories produced more than domestic consumers could absorb.
• Access to Raw Materials: Expansion into foreign territories promised access to essential resources like rubber, oil, and minerals.
• Investment Opportunities: Capitalists sought lucrative investments abroad as domestic options became saturated.

This economic drive significantly influenced public opinion and government policies toward expansionist actions such as those seen in Hawaii and Puerto Rico.

The Role of Media and Propaganda

The rise of mass media played a crucial role in shaping public perception during this era. Newspapers like William Randolph Hearst's New York Journal and Joseph Pulitzer's New York World engaged in sensational journalism that often exaggerated events or fabricated stories to capture readers' attention. The Spanish-American War is a prime example where yellow journalism stoked public outrage against Spain following incidents such as the sinking of USS Maine in Havana Harbor.

This manipulation of information generated fervent public support for military intervention overseas under patriotic pretenses—a hallmark characteristic of jingoism—whereby aggressive foreign policy was framed as a moral obligation rather than mere imperial ambition.

Cultural Influences: Racial Superiority Ideologies

Cultural attitudes regarding race also played a critical role in fostering jingoistic sentiments during this time period. Many Americans embraced Social Darwinism—the belief that certain races or nations were inherently superior—justifying their expansionist actions through pseudo-scientific reasoning that positioned non-Western peoples as "less evolved." This ideology provided moral justification for colonial pursuits while reinforcing feelings of superiority among white Americans who saw themselves as bearers of civilization.

The Spanish-American War: A Turning Point

The culmination of these influences can be observed distinctly during the Spanish-American War (1898). Triggered by tensions over Cuba’s struggle for independence from Spain coupled with sensationalized media portrayals portraying Spanish atrocities against Cuban civilians; America rapidly mobilized its military forces under President McKinley’s administration amidst widespread nationalistic fervor.
This brief conflict resulted not only in victory but also led directly into America’s acquisition overseas territories such as Guam, Puerto Rico,and the Philippines through treaties signed thereafter paving way towards establishing an empire
.

Conclusion

The late nineteenth century marked an era where American identity evolved dramatically from isolationist tendencies rooted within earlier years into one embracing expansive ambitions both politically & economically-driven while maintaining cultural justifications based on racial superiority ideologies—all wrapped tightly around notions stemming back centuries ago tied closely together through concepts like Manifest Destiny fueling aspirations beyond borders & oceans alike.
 
A confluence between economic interests alongside social constructs combined with mass media’s influential power ultimately established what would become known popularly today simply as “jingoism” - demonstrating how intertwined various factors can shape national attitudes towards international engagement throughout history!

References

• Baker, C. (2003). The Imperial Republic: The United States since 1890.
• Tischler, B., & Moser A.P.(2017). Jingoism: A Historical Overview .
• Shelton,M.A.(2021). Yellow Journalism & Its Impact On U.S Foreign Policy
• Patterson,T.E.(2015). The Rise Of Media Influence On Public Opinion In America