Why did America become an imperial power?

Answer 1

People are naturally greedy. If they are weak then they don't try to bully others. But if they become strong, then in time their personality changes and they start to view empire-building as OK. (Usually they make up justifications for it, eg "we're bringing them civilisation/democracy", "they're pagan", "we're defending our interests", etc.)

Answer 2

Territories that the US holds currently are held because of their military value. That is, they are good places from which to resupply or launch an attack. If we didn't own them we would have to get special permission for our military to be on their soil every time there was a conflict that caused us to need to be there.

This brings up a second question: Why should there be conflicts so far from our shores that we need a base not on our own continent? I can't answer that question, and if someone else does, I would take their answer with a huge block of salt, because that is a very controversial question, with completely contradictory answers. In my opinion, wars always happen because someone is not respecting the rights of someone else. Both sides of every war claim it is the other side. (It is possible that both sides are correct about this claim.)

Answer 3

Imperialism is the pursuit of colonial empires. Many countries took part in this, but none quite like the United States. The motivation that the United States had to get involved in such an enormous task was first shown in Samoa in 1889. After that important part of United States history, there were many more events that occurred in the eyes of United States imperialism. There were many positive aspects concerning America's intervening with other countries' affairs. These proved to shape the society of not only the U.S., but as well as the other countries which were involved. The reasoning behind the United States' involvement was somewhat simple. Just as other countries, such as Great Britain, that were taking part in imperialism, the U.S. acted because of economic power as well as the reputation that they held among other countries. It seemed obvious that it was easier for an industrial worker to be aided by a machine. The number of products was significantly greater than before. In the mean time, while looking for new suppliers as well as new consumers (other countries), the U.S worried that there would be competition.

Answer 4

To expand trade export opportunities To control shipping lanes To make the nation more secure

Answer 5

Because Americans wanted new markets and raw materials.

Answer 6

The concept of an American Empire was first popularized during the presidency of James Polk in about 1845.

Answer 7

Family Values