Which factor, self-interest or idealism, was more important in driving American foreign policy in the years 1895-1920?

Thanks for the info :)

uhh Larry...what you said exactly describes "self-interest" haha and plus the prompt said nothing at all about REALISM it said IDEALISM with an "I"

OK.SO IT WAS IDEALISM BECAUSE ....................................................................................................................

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. . . . .. . . . . . FOREIGN POLICIES.

Thanks, you helped me out a lot :)

i think what he meant was its realism and not self interest, meaning the term in the question is wrong. however realism and self interest are the same thing so there is no need to change the term. realism, or self interest, which ever you would prefer to call it, rather than idealism, drove American foreign policy in the years 1895-1920.

To determine which factor was more important in driving American foreign policy in the years 1895-1920, we need to examine historical events and analyze the motivations behind those actions. Let's break it down and explore both self-interest and idealism as driving factors:

1. Self-interest: Self-interest refers to the pursuit of national goals and the protection of American interests. During this period, the United States experienced significant changes, such as industrialization and expansionism, that contributed to self-interested motivations in foreign policy.

a. Economic Expansion: The United States sought new markets and raw materials to fuel its growing industries. Examples include the Open Door Policy in China, where the US aimed to gain economic access and prevent other powers' domination.

b. Security Concerns: The American government aimed to protect its territories, citizens, and economic interests from external threats. For instance, the acquisition of the Panama Canal Zone safeguarded American naval power and facilitated trade routes.

2. Idealism: Idealism refers to the pursuit of moral and ideological principles guiding foreign policy decisions. During this period, the United States faced various social, political, and global challenges that influenced its idealistic motivations.

a. Wilsonian Idealism: Under President Woodrow Wilson, idealistic principles such as democracy, self-determination, and international cooperation gained prominence. The establishment of the League of Nations after World War I epitomizes Wilson's idealistic vision for international peace and global governance.

b. Humanitarian Interventions: The United States engaged in humanitarian interventions in Latin America, the Philippines, and Cuba, fueled by the desire to spread American values, such as democracy and freedom, or protect oppressed populations.

Analyzing the relative importance of self-interest versus idealism requires considering the context of each situation and the primary motivations behind specific foreign policy decisions. It is essential to evaluate historical documents, government policies, and speeches during this period to get a comprehensive understanding.

Ultimately, the balance between self-interest and idealism in American foreign policy during 1895-1920 can vary based on regional considerations, specific events, and the priorities of different presidents and policymakers.

For starters, it is realism and not self interest. Now that is aside, let me help you out.

Foreign policy was, I believe, mainly realism for the United States. We know that the majority of the foreign policies were that of economic standard, and we know for a fact that we weren't trying to raise someone else's economy. We were trying to raise OURS. Also, foreign policy led us to imperialism(expanding), so that we could become a larger country. Lastly, our foreign policies led to treaties so we would have allies if we got in trouble.

Hope I helped.