1.  Do Now (copy into your notes) :  In the late 1800s, many Americans wanted the country to expand beyond its borders. Some said the U.S. needed to expand in order to have access to the raw materials and markets that were necessary for industrialization. Others said that the U.S. should spread western civilization to the “uncivilized.”

2.  1. What is imperialism?  2. Define Manifest Destiny. 3. Why could you say that Manifest Destiny was a form of imperialism?

3.  1860s—Homestead Act (gave land to settlers) and the Transcontinental Railroad led to increased westward expansion  1893  Frederick Jackson Turner presents the Frontier Thesis  Says that the American frontier has closed--No more new western land to settle  Many people took this to mean that the U.S. should now search for new territory to conquer

4.  1790’s  Neutrality/Isolationism  Washington announces the Proclamation of Neutrality  The U.S. stays neutral in Europe, and generally does not get involved in foreign affairs  1890’s  Imperialism  Expansionists want the U.S. to gain more territory and have more world influence

5.  Cultural:  Social Darwinism (survival of the fittest)  Spread religion (Christianity) and culture (Western)  Spread American values (democracy, freedom)

6.  Military: To expand U.S. power  Access to refueling stations around the world

7.  Economic:  To protect American business interests overseas  Access to natural resources  Access to markets to sell goods  McDonalds in China 

8.  What are the main reasons for American imperialism in the late 1800s?