Motivations for Imperialism
Desire for Military strength
Belief in Cultural Superiority
"Manifest Destiny": God intended the U.S. to expand & become powerful.
Social Darwinism: survival of the fittest; stronger nations will control weaker nations b/c they are "fitter” and racially superior
Christianity is the true religion, and American imperialism will spread Christianity.
“White Man’s Burden”—the white peoples of the world have an obligation to bring Christianity and their superior civilization to the “savages”
National Security: Competition between countries was vicious; a nation had to protect its own interests; keep other countries from becoming too powerful.
Military Advantage: More bases in more parts of the world…better navy; to protect our national security.
Gas Stations: A colony can serve as a refueling/loading station for the Navy, to protect national security; help expand trade
New markets: more people to buy its products
Natural Resources: more places to get natural resources from (oil, rubber, cotton, etc.) to be used in its factories
