Spanish American War Research Paper

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When the United States of America became a world power in the late 1890’s, it sparked a new era for the country. This unfamiliar age of foreign policy was just the beginning of the end for American isolationism. Over the last one hundred plus years, the United States has consistently intervened in a multitude of world affairs, ones in which we have been both welcome and unwelcome. These policy decisions have led to monumental change around the world, intense debates between United States politicians and citizens alike, and major domestic ramifications within the United States itself. From the Spanish-American War of 1898 to present day, the United States has characterized itself as an increasingly dominant influence in foreign affairs …show more content…
Severe oppression of the Cuban people under Spanish rule and the mysterious sinking of the USS Maine were the two leading factors in the conflict between the United States and Spain, appropriately coined the Spanish-American War. Prior to the conflict, a Spanish Ambassador penned the De Lome letter, criticizing president McKinley and angering patriotic American citizens. Anger over the De Lome letter and the sinking of the USS Maine brewed, and soon enough the public was demanding that the government act and intervene. After months of conflict, the United States and Spain signed the Treaty of Paris, in which doing so led to the United States gaining multiple territories, including Cuba. This acquisition went against the anti-imperialists in the States and compelled a crucial discussion regarding the country’s newfound role in the world. Discussion over the country’s recent foreign affair sparked between people who wanted the United States to broaden its reach on the world, and people who did not support imperialism and thought it wise …show more content…
Roosevelt had his own foreign philosophy, “Speak softly, and carry a big stick”. This foreign policy was based on recent military success in the Spanish-American War, as it says that actual military force was not necessary if the military could threaten force, hence the walk softly and carry a big stick. Roosevelt was a major shaper of current US foreign policy with his Roosevelt Corollary. The Roosevelt Corollary proclaimed that the business of North and South America was also the business of the United States as the continental police force. This is a big development in foreign policy, as the United States still considers itself part of the world police force today. Due to this mindset, Roosevelt used military force in Panama to strongarm the Panama Canal into existence by helping with the Panamanian Revolution. This canal opened an expressway of sorts from the east and west. Another Roosevelt idea was the Great White Fleet, a showmanship of military power that would tour the world. This show of power helped boost public support for the navy, as well as show the naval power of the United States to the rest of the world. Throughout Roosevelt’s presidency, he executed foreign policy in a way it had not been done before, as he established the United States role as both a diplomat and enforcer in the world and
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