Cheating An Empire
The Spanish-American War was brought about over the Spanish policies in Cuba in 1898. America's victory in this war rose debate over the terms in the Treaty of Paris.
People argued furiously over whether the country should obtain the Philippines. Some believed the expansion beyond North America forsake America's political principles.
Nevertheless many wanted to expand the nation. They believed since the United States has always expanded across the continent through such purchases and conquest as the Louisiana territory, Florida, Texas, and Oregon why stop there. Republican's like Henry urged the country to make an overseas empire and use the European model of imperialism based on the acquisition and exploitation of colonial possessions. Other Americans wanted a less formal empire. One that the U.S. interest and influence would be assured by extensive trade rather than military.
Other Expansionist were more concerned for the nations security. Because of American's location lying between two coastlines in the Western Hemisphere and the ambitions of other nations Americans believed that the United States had to develop new policies to protect national security.
Alfred Mahan, a naval officer, proposed a canal across Panama to link its coast. This canal would promote trade and service the fleet. Many supported the idea for a larger navy. With a larger navy it could expand and protect America's international trade. Most all Americans favored economic growth through foreign trade.
In the 1900s, Cubans Rebelled against Spanish Rule. One rebellion lasted ten years before drawing Americans interest. Cuba was the last major European colony with and economic potential that attracted American business interest and also had a strategic importance for any Central American canal. The relations between the United States and Spain were deteriorated. Partly because Spain was not negotiating in good faith. President Mckinley demanded...