26. What were the major factors which shaped American foreign policy in the period 1890 to 1900? Show how at least one of these factors influenced our actions in the Panama Canal controversy.
Thanks
-MC
MC -- I don't see your ideas about this question. What does your text say? Why did we build the Panama Canal?
In order to answer this question, we need to first identify the major factors that shaped American foreign policy in the period 1890 to 1900. Then, we can explore how one of these factors influenced American actions in the Panama Canal controversy.
1. Economic Expansionism: One major factor was the desire for economic expansion. The United States sought new markets and resources abroad to fuel its growing industrial economy. This economic expansionism motivated American foreign policy during this time period.
2. National Security: Another significant factor was the concern for national security. With the rise of global powers and the acquisition of overseas territories, the United States aimed to protect its interests and establish a secure presence in various regions.
3. The Monroe Doctrine: The Monroe Doctrine, first articulated in 1823 and reiterated during this time period, was another influential factor. It proclaimed that the Western Hemisphere was closed to further colonization by European powers and warned against any interference in the affairs of independent nations in the region.
Now, let's examine how one of these factors influenced American actions in the Panama Canal controversy:
The Panama Canal controversy arose after the United States supported Panama's bid for independence from Colombia in 1903. This was influenced by both economic expansionism and national security concerns.
Economic expansionism played a role because the United States sought to establish control over the strategically important Panama Canal, which would provide a shorter route for trade and military movements between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. The canal would greatly benefit American commerce by facilitating faster and cheaper transportation of goods.
Regarding national security, the United States viewed control over the canal as essential for its defense interests. The U.S. Navy needed a faster route to move ships between the Atlantic and Pacific, as the previous route around the tip of South America was time-consuming and posed significant risks. Consequently, securing the Panama Canal allowed the U.S. to project its military power more effectively and respond rapidly to potential threats in both oceans.
To summarize, the major factors shaping American foreign policy in the period 1890 to 1900 included economic expansionism, national security concerns, and adherence to the Monroe Doctrine. In the Panama Canal controversy, both economic expansion and national security played important roles in influencing American actions to support Panama's independence and ultimately secure the canal under American control.