President Roosevelt is one of the few presidents known as much for his accomplishments with foreign affairs as he is with domestic ones. Research President Roosevelt’s foreign policies and his “Big Stick Ideology” then describe the policy in your own words and provide 3 examples of Roosevelt enacting “Big Stick” policies.

Answer 1

President Theodore Roosevelt, who served from 1901 to 1909, is renowned for his dynamic approach to foreign policy, which he famously characterized as “Speak softly and carry a big stick.” This ideology emphasized the importance of diplomacy backed by a strong military presence. Roosevelt believed that the United States should engage in peaceful negotiations whenever possible, but he also thought that demonstrating military strength was essential to deter aggression and protect American interests.

Description of "Big Stick Ideology" in My Own Words

The "Big Stick Ideology" can be summarized as the idea that a country should first attempt to resolve conflicts through dialogue and diplomacy but also maintain a powerful military capability to back up its words. It suggests that showing strength can help avoid conflict by making other nations think twice before challenging the U.S. This approach reflects a balance between being conciliatory and assertive, indicating that while the U.S. values peace and negotiation, it is prepared to use force if necessary to safeguard its interests or provide stability.

Examples of Roosevelt Enacting "Big Stick" Policies

1. The Panama Canal: One of the most significant demonstrations of Roosevelt's "Big Stick" policy was the construction of the Panama Canal. In 1903, when Colombia rejected U.S. proposals to build a canal across its territory, Roosevelt supported a rebellion by Panamanian revolutionaries. The U.S. recognized Panama’s independence and subsequently secured a treaty to construct and control the canal. This powerful action not only facilitated maritime trade but also showcased American military backing to achieve strategic goals.

2. The Roosevelt Corollary to the Monroe Doctrine: In 1904, Roosevelt expanded the Monroe Doctrine to include a policy stating that the U.S. had the right to intervene in Latin American countries to maintain order and sovereignty. This corollary justified American intervention in regional affairs under the premise of preventing European powers from interfering in the Western Hemisphere. Roosevelt's involvement in the Dominican Republic in 1905 is an example, where he sent U.S. troops to stabilize the government and manage debts, asserting U.S. influence in the region.

3. The Great White Fleet: In 1907, Roosevelt ordered the U.S. Navy to embark on a world tour known as the Great White Fleet, comprised of 16 battleships painted white. The purpose of the tour was to showcase American naval power and promote peace through strength. The fleet's visit to various countries, including Japan, served as a diplomatic gesture, demonstrating the U.S.'s military capabilities and reinforcing its role as a formidable power on the international stage.

These examples illustrate how Roosevelt effectively applied his "Big Stick" ideology in various foreign policy initiatives, balancing military strength with diplomatic efforts to shape international relations and promote U.S. interests around the globe.