How is the US different from European Nations when it comes to Imperialism?

Question

Why did the US want to expand Westward to Asia?

What was Commander Mathew Perry's goal in going to Japan? Why was Japan's rulers
worried of Perry and his ships?

What did the Treaty of Kanagawa do for the US?

What happened from 1867-1899 for the US during Pacific Expansion? Which event do you think was vital for US Pacific expansion? Why?

Why was the US interested in imperializing Hawaii? How did they aid Hawaii before and during their economic recession?

Answer 1

The United States and European nations approached imperialism in distinct ways that reflected their different historical contexts, motivations, and ideologies.

Differences Between US and European Imperialism

1. Context and Ideology: European imperialism during the 19th century was often driven by a desire for territorial acquisition, exploitation of resources, and spreading Western culture and civilization. Countries like Britain, France, and Germany engaged in what became known as the "Scramble for Africa" and sought vast colonies around the world. In contrast, the US, influenced by Manifest Destiny, was primarily focused on continental expansion across North America, which then began to extend into territories in the Pacific and Caribbean.

2. Methods: European powers often employed direct colonization, establishing governance over territories. The US, however, frequently utilized indirect methods such as economic influence, political manipulation, and the establishment of protectorates. In many cases, like in Hawaii and the Philippines, the US engaged in annexation following the destabilization of local governments or through military intervention.

3. Motivations: For Europeans, imperialism was often about national prestige, competition with other powers, and economic exploitation of colonies. In contrast, while the US shared some of these motives, it was also driven by a sense of destiny and the belief in the superiority of American democracy and culture.

Reasons for Westward Expansion to Asia

The US sought to expand westward to Asia for several reasons:

1. Economic Interests: The US was looking for new markets for its goods, particularly following the Industrial Revolution. Asia, with its vast population and potential for trade, presented opportunities for American businesses.

2. Strategic Interests: Establishing a presence in Asia was also seen as vital for national security and geopolitical strategy, especially in relation to European powers that were active in the region.

3. Cultural Factors: There was a prevailing notion among many Americans that they had a mission to civilize and democratize the peoples of Asia, paralleling the ideas that fueled expansion across North America.

Commodore Matthew Perry's Mission to Japan

Commodore Matthew Perry was sent to Japan with the primary goal of opening Japan to American trade. At the time, Japan was largely isolated under the sakoku (locked country) policy, which prohibited most foreign contact.

1. Objectives: Perry's mission sought to secure trade agreements and establish diplomatic relations with Japan, which would help the US access Asian markets and serve as a coaling station for American ships en route to China.

2. Japanese Concerns: The rulers of Japan were worried about Perry and his ships due to the potential military threat posed by the display of American naval power. They were aware of Western imperialism's tendency to subjugate isolated nations and were concerned that their refusal to engage could lead to aggression.

Treaty of Kanagawa

The Treaty of Kanagawa, signed in 1854, marked the first formal agreement between the United States and Japan. It accomplished the following:

1. Trade Agreements: The treaty opened two Japanese ports (Shimoda and Hakodate) to American merchant ships for supplies and shelter.

2. End of Isolation: It effectively ended Japan's 220-year policy of isolation, setting the stage for further international engagement and influence from other Western nations.

Pacific Expansion: 1867-1899

Between 1867 and 1899, the US underwent significant expansion in the Pacific, marked by events like the purchase of Alaska in 1867 and the annexation of Hawaii in 1898. These actions demonstrated an increasing American interest in acquiring territories abroad, especially in the face of European competition.

1. Important Events: One of the most critical events during this period was the annexation of Hawaii, which provided the US with strategic military and economic advantages in the Pacific.

2. Impact of Hawaii: The annexation of Hawaii allowed for a naval base at Pearl Harbor, strengthening the US military presence in the Pacific and securing important coaling stations for ships.

US Interest in Hawaii

The US interest in Hawaii was driven primarily by:

1. Economic Interests: American sugar planters had established a profitable sugar industry in Hawaii, and they wanted to secure favorable tariffs and market access.

2. Strategic Military Location: Hawaii’s geographic location made it a crucial hub for US military and economic interests in the Pacific.

3. Aid During Economic Recession: As Hawaii faced economic challenges, American interests provided loans and investments. During the crisis, US businessmen in Hawaii successfully lobbied for annexation to gain better economic protections and access to US markets, which was a pivotal factor in Hawaii's eventual annexation in 1898.

This historical trajectory highlights the complex motivations and methods of American imperialism in contrast to European colonization practices.