Imperialism Part 4

U.S. IMPERIALISM

I myself do not think that the U.S. has been Imperialist but there is evidence for both sides.

Pros for Imperialism:

1)The Examples of the Louisianna Purchase and the government's urgent Manifest Destiny push both provide the basis for belief in an Imperialist America. In these situations, most would say that the country was intended to gain land from the Native Americans for selfish purposes.

2) The induction of Hawaii into the American states is a common example of Imperialism. The country took over the island, regardless of the fact that it was a long distance from its coast, and has kept it ever since.

3)The U.S.' takeover of Central American islands after the Spanish-American War is considered to e extremely Imperialistic by nature. We practically invaded their homes and told them that we were in charge.

Cons for Imperialism:

1)The U.S., while being present in many of these nations, has steered clear of takeover in the Middle East, leaving Iran, Iraq, Afghanistan etc. to continue their governmental control without anything more than their military presence.

2)If the U.S. desired to take more land and create greater spheres of influence, it would have been done already. We have the intelligence, drive, and power to intiate a takeover of any country in the world, but we have not, because we are not truly Imperialistic.

3)The Constitution sets forth a principle that calls for the "consent of the governed." To imperialize, and thus annex other colonies would violate this important aspect of our democracy.