Influence in Asia (Part 2) and Latin America

Tensions Rise Between America and Japan  The Russo-Japanese War began when Japan became frustrated with Russian troops in the region of China known as Manchuria.  When the two countries went to war, the United States became involved.  President Theodore Roosevelt negotiated an end to the war, winning him a Nobel Peace Prize.  Roosevelt further brokered tensions with Japan after San Francisco schools attempted to segregate Japanese children.  In the Gentleman’s Agreement, the school board pledged to end its segregation policy if Japan restricted emigration from Japan.

Tensions rise Between America and Japan  In a demonstration of their growing Navy, Theodore Roosevelt sent 16 white battleships on a “good will cruise” around the world.  These ships were known as the Great White Fleet.  It was a clever demonstration of military power by the newly emerged imperial power.

U.S. Policy in Puerto Rico and Cuba  Puerto Rico remained under U.S. rule after the S-A War. The Foraker Act was passed in 1900 and established a civil government on the island.  Although Puerto Rico was a part of the United States, they could not enjoy the same privileges– in the insular cases, it was decided that Puerto Ricans had to pay taxes, but were not citizens.  Similarly, Cubans disliked the Platt Amendment (which was added to their constitution by the US) because it restricted their freedoms, stating:  Had to have US consent to sign treaties;  Lease land for naval bases (Guantanamo Bay);  US had ‘right to intervene’ to uphold order.

Roosevelt Pursues “Big Stick” Diplomacy In regards to foreign policy, Roosevelt adopted a belief that a strong military was needed to achieve goals. This became known as “big stick diplomacy” from the African proverb “speak softly and carry a big stick; you will go far.” In 1903, the U.S. bought the rights to the Panama Canal from a French company. Since Panama belonged to Colombia, they needed permission from the Colombian gov to build. When the Panamanians rebelled for their independence, Roosevelt sent ships to back them. Upon acquiring freedom, they purchased the Canal Zone for $10 million, and $250,000 annual rent.

Roosevelt Pursues “Big Stick” Diplomacy  When the canal was completed in 1914, it cut 8,000 miles off the trip from the Atlantic to the Pacific Ocean.  Militarily, this allowed the U.S. naval fleets to send assistance in a speedier manner.  Economically, goods could be shipped 7-14 days faster.  When Latin American countries could not pay their debts, European countries began to occupy these countries.  In an effort to demonstrate regional power, Roosevelt updated the Monroe Doctrine by adding this corollary (an addendum) to it:  In the case of “chronic wrongdoing” (i.e debt) by a foreign nation, the U.S. could step in as a ‘police power’ and restore order.  It provided a basis for U.S. intervention.