Rise of US Imperialism & European Demographic Shifts (Late 19th Century)

US Imperialism in the Late 19th Century

Economic Factors

The rise of US imperialism was fueled by significant economic growth in the late 19th century. This growth, coupled with European protectionist policies, encouraged American expansion.

Ideological Factors

• Social Darwinism: This ideology, gaining traction at the time, promoted the idea that nations, like species, must compete for survival, justifying US expansionism.
• The Monroe Doctrine: This cornerstone of US foreign policy, articulated by President James Monroe, asserted American dominance in the Western Hemisphere and discouraged European interference.

The US began expanding its influence in the Pacific, targeting islands as potential markets for trade with Asia. This form of imperialism, often called neocolonialism, focused on indirect control rather than direct territorial conquest. This involved interference in the internal affairs of other countries and influencing local governments to serve American interests.

Following Cuba's independence declaration and the Spanish-American War, the US asserted its right to intervene in Cuban affairs, ostensibly to preserve Cuban independence and protect life, property, and individual liberty.

Demographic and Political Shifts in Late 19th Century Europe

Great Britain

During Queen Victoria's reign, Britain was the most powerful nation, a prosperous and liberal monarchy. Its political system was based on two major parties:

• The Tories (Conservatives)
• The Whigs (Liberals)

By the late 1890s, the Whigs were being challenged by the rising Labour Party. The Liberal system broadened the English electoral system, extending voting rights and promoting democratic education through free and compulsory schooling from ages 6 to 13.

France

France stood as the only major European power with a republican political regime – the French Third Republic. It had a bicameral legislature and a president. This period saw significant political democratization:

• Workers' parties were legalized.
• Universal suffrage was established.
• Free and compulsory education was implemented from ages 6 to 13.

By the late 19th century, two major republican parties had emerged: one moderate and one more radical. In 1905, the influential French Section of the Workers' International (SFIO) was founded, gaining support among the working class. The Franco-Prussian War significantly impacted French foreign policy, leading to a search for alliances with other nations, particularly against Germany.