How did US foreign policy change after the Spanish–American War?

After the Spanish-American War, US foreign policy shifted towards imperialism and increased international involvement.

The Spanish-American War, which took place in 1898, marked a significant turning point in US foreign policy. Prior to this, the United States had largely adhered to a policy of isolationism, focusing on domestic affairs and largely avoiding international conflicts. However, the victory over Spain and the acquisition of overseas territories such as Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines signalled a shift towards a more interventionist and imperialistic stance.

This change was driven by several factors. Firstly, the war demonstrated the growing power and reach of the United States. The swift victory over Spain, a once powerful colonial power, showcased the strength of the US military and its ability to project power overseas. This newfound confidence led to a more assertive foreign policy, with the United States increasingly willing to intervene in international affairs to protect its interests.

Secondly, the acquisition of overseas territories brought the United States into the realm of global politics. The control of territories such as the Philippines and Puerto Rico gave the United States strategic footholds in the Pacific and Caribbean, respectively. These territories not only expanded the reach of the United States, but also brought it into direct competition with other colonial powers, necessitating a more active and engaged foreign policy.

Finally, the war and its aftermath sparked a debate within the United States about the country's role in the world. Some, like President Theodore Roosevelt, argued for a more assertive and interventionist foreign policy, believing that the United States had a duty to spread its values and institutions abroad. Others, however, were wary of the costs and risks associated with imperialism and preferred a more cautious approach. This debate shaped US foreign policy in the years following the war, with the interventionist camp often prevailing.

IB History Tutor Summary: After the Spanish-American War in 1898, the US moved from keeping to itself to playing a bigger role globally, showing off its military strength and controlling new territories like Puerto Rico and the Philippines. This shift led to debates about whether America should spread its values worldwide or be cautious of imperialism, shaping its foreign policy to be more assertive and interventionist.