Introduction to American Imperialism in Asia and Panama

What you’ll learn to do: explain American imperialism connected to Asia and Panama

The United States shifted from isolationism to empire building with its victory in the Spanish-American War. But at the same time, the country sought to expand its reach through another powerful tool: its economic clout. The Industrial Revolution gave American businesses an edge in delivering high-quality products at lowered costs, and the pursuit of an “open door” policy with China opened new markets to American goods. This trade agreement allowed the United States to continue to build power through economic advantage.

Political cartoon of President Roosevelt carrying a big stick and walking triumphantly around the Caribbean.

Figure 1. “The Big Stick in the Caribbean Sea.”

Look at the image above and think about what the cartoonist was trying to convey. How was Roosevelt using the military for economic ends? And what do you think the artist was saying about how the United States was conducting itself in the Caribbean? Do you think they felt that this was a positive or a negative development? Note Roosevelt’s famous “big stick,” a metaphor he commonly used to describe U.S. military might.

Political cartoon of President Taft wrapping a stick with padding. The stick says "Roosevelt's foreign policies" and the wrapping says "conservative methods."

Figure 2. “Padding the Big Stick.”

Now contrast that with this image of President William Howard Taft, whose administration followed Roosevelt’s. Here he is wrapping up Roosevelt’s club. What do you think the cartoonist was saying about Taft’s foreign policy and how it differed from Roosevelt’s? These are topics that we will explore more in this section.