President Theodore Roosevelt's foreign policy is often characterized by his "Big Stick Ideology," a phrase that stems from his belief that the United States should engage diplomatically while always being prepared to convincingly use military force if necessary. This ideology emphasized the importance of a strong military presence as a means to back up diplomatic negotiations and ensure that the U.S. could protect its interests in the Western Hemisphere and beyond.
In simpler terms, Roosevelt's Big Stick Ideology meant that the U.S. should try to solve international problems through discussion and diplomacy, but always be ready to use force if those discussions failed. This approach reflected Roosevelt's belief in American exceptionalism and a proactive stance in global affairs.
Here are three examples of how Roosevelt enacted his "Big Stick" policies:
- The construction of the Panama Canal was facilitated by Roosevelt's use of military pressure, as he supported a revolt in Panama against Colombia to secure U.S. interests in completing the canal project.
- Roosevelt's deployment of the Great White Fleet in 1907 demonstrated his belief in naval power, as he sent the U.S. Navy on a worldwide tour to showcase American military strength and deter potential adversaries.
- The Roosevelt Corollary to the Monroe Doctrine asserted the U.S.'s right to intervene in Latin American countries to maintain order and stability, exemplifying Roosevelt's willingness to use military action to protect American interests in the region.