Was American Imperialism Justified?: [Essay Example], 616 words
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Was American Imperialism Justified?

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Words: 616 |

Page: 1|

4 min read

Updated: 27 January, 2025

Essay grade:
Good
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Words: 616|Page: 1|4 min read

Updated: 27 January, 2025

Essay grade:
Good
arrow downward Read Review

Table of contents

  1. Arguments in Favor of American Imperialism
  2. 1. Economic Benefits:
  3. 2. National Security:
  4. 3. Civilizing Mission:
  5. Arguments Against American Imperialism
  6. 1. Violation of Sovereignty:
  7. 2. Ethical Dilemmas:
  8. 3. Humanitarian Concerns:
  9. Factors Shaping American Imperialism
  10. 1. Economic Interests:
  11. 2. Geopolitical Competition:
  12. 3. Ideological and Moral Justifications:
  13. 4. Nationalism:
  14. Conclusion

Throughout its history, the United States has engaged in various forms of imperialism, extending its influence and territorial control beyond its borders. American imperialism occurred during different periods, such as the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and involved the acquisition of territories and the assertion of dominance over other nations. The question of whether American imperialism was justified is a complex and debated issue. In this essay, we will explore the arguments on both sides of the debate and analyze the factors that shaped American imperialist actions.

Arguments in Favor of American Imperialism

Proponents of American imperialism argue that it was justified for several reasons:

1. Economic Benefits:

American expansionists believed that acquiring overseas territories would open new markets for American goods and resources, leading to economic growth and prosperity. The acquisition of territories like Hawaii and the Philippines provided access to valuable resources and strategic trade routes, benefiting the American economy.

2. National Security:

Some argued that expanding American influence and control over other regions was necessary for national security. They believed that establishing naval bases and military outposts in far-flung areas would protect American interests and deter potential threats.

3. Civilizing Mission:

Many proponents of imperialism believed in the idea of a "civilizing mission." They argued that the United States had a moral duty to bring civilization, education, and Christianity to less developed nations. This perspective framed imperialism as a means of spreading American values and progress.

Arguments Against American Imperialism

Opponents of American imperialism raised several ethical and practical concerns:

1. Violation of Sovereignty:

Critics argued that American imperialism violated the sovereignty of other nations. The United States often imposed its will on weaker countries through military force, undermining their self-determination and independence.

2. Ethical Dilemmas:

Imperialist actions were accompanied by ethical dilemmas, including the use of force, colonization, and subjugation of native populations. Critics questioned the morality of such actions and whether they aligned with American values of freedom and democracy.

3. Humanitarian Concerns:

American imperialism was associated with human rights abuses and exploitation. In some cases, the United States engaged in oppressive practices, leading to suffering and injustice in the territories it controlled.

Factors Shaping American Imperialism

Several factors influenced American imperialism:

1. Economic Interests:

The desire for economic growth and access to resources was a powerful motivator for imperialism. The quest for new markets and resources drove American expansion in the Pacific, the Caribbean, and Latin America.

2. Geopolitical Competition:

The late 19th and early 20th centuries were marked by intense global competition among imperial powers. The United States felt the need to assert itself on the world stage to compete with other nations, leading to expansionist policies.

3. Ideological and Moral Justifications:

Belief in the superiority of American culture and values, combined with the sense of a civilizing mission, played a role in justifying imperialism. This ideological perspective fueled expansionist sentiments.

4. Nationalism:

Nationalistic fervor and the desire to demonstrate American strength and exceptionalism contributed to imperialist ambitions. The notion of manifest destiny, which promoted westward expansion, also influenced attitudes toward overseas expansion.

Conclusion

The question of whether American imperialism was justified does not have a straightforward answer. It is a complex issue with arguments on both sides. Proponents of imperialism often highlighted economic benefits, national security, and a civilizing mission, while critics emphasized violations of sovereignty, ethical dilemmas, and humanitarian concerns.

Ultimately, American imperialism had a lasting impact on the United States and the world. It expanded the nation's reach and influence but also raised ethical and moral questions about the means and consequences of such expansion. The debate over the justification of American imperialism continues to be a topic of historical reflection and analysis.

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It is essential to examine the historical context, motivations, and consequences of American imperialism to understand the complexities of this chapter in American history and its implications for the present and future.

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This essay was graded by
Dr. Charlotte Jacobson
Essay’s grade:
Good
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Expert Review
The essay on American imperialism provides a comprehensive exploration of both sides of the debate, detailing the arguments in favor and against the practice, as well as outlining the factors that influenced American imperialist actions. The structure is clear, with well-defined sections and logical progression from one argument to another. However, while it presents a broad overview, it lacks depth in analyzing each point thoroughly. The essay could benefit from more nuanced perspectives and specific historical examples to support its claims. Additionally, the narrative would be enriched by incorporating more critical analysis of the long-term impacts of imperialism on both America and other nations involved. The language used is accessible but occasionally veers into repetition, which affects the engagement level of the reader. Overall, while informative, this essay falls short of providing a compelling argument due to its limited analytical depth and reliance on generalizations.
minus plus
What can be improved
The essay on American imperialism presents a solid foundation by addressing key arguments for and against the practice. However, several areas could be improved to enhance its analytical depth and overall effectiveness. Firstly, incorporating specific historical examples would strengthen the arguments significantly. For instance, discussing the implications of the annexation of Hawaii or the Philippine-American War would provide concrete evidence to support claims made about economic benefits or violations of sovereignty. Additionally, a more nuanced analysis of each argument is necessary. Instead of merely stating positions, exploring counterarguments or alternative viewpoints would enrich the discussion and demonstrate a deeper understanding of the complexities surrounding American imperialism. Furthermore, engaging with primary sources or scholarly research could add credibility to the assertions made throughout the essay. This approach would not only provide additional perspectives but also help contextualize imperialism within broader historical narratives. Lastly, addressing the long-term consequences of American imperialism—such as its impact on international relations and domestic policies—would provide valuable insights into why this topic remains relevant today. By enhancing these aspects, the essay could evolve from a general overview into a compelling and thought-provoking analysis that engages readers more effectively.

Cite this Essay

Was American Imperialism Justified? (2023, September 07). GradesFixer. Retrieved February 17, 2025, from https://gradesfixer.com/free-essay-examples/was-american-imperialism-justified/
“Was American Imperialism Justified?” GradesFixer, 07 Sept. 2023, gradesfixer.com/free-essay-examples/was-american-imperialism-justified/
Was American Imperialism Justified? [online]. Available at: <https://gradesfixer.com/free-essay-examples/was-american-imperialism-justified/> [Accessed 17 Feb. 2025].
Was American Imperialism Justified? [Internet] GradesFixer. 2023 Sept 07 [cited 2025 Feb 17]. Available from: https://gradesfixer.com/free-essay-examples/was-american-imperialism-justified/
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