Political Motivations for Imperialism

This page introduces Alfred Thayer Mahan and his influence on U.S. imperialism:

1. Mahan was a naval strategist and author of "The Influence of Sea Power Upon History"
2. He argued that national prosperity and power depended on control of the world's sea-lanes
3. His famous quote: "Whoever rules the waves rules the world"

Mahan's ideas significantly influenced U.S. foreign policy and provided political motives for imperialism.

British Empire's Global Reach

This page illustrates the extent of the British Empire, which controlled over 1/4 of the world's territory and population. The map shows British colonies and territories across the globe, including:

1. Canada
2. India
3. Australia
4. New Zealand
5. Various African territories

This information provides context for the global competition that drove U.S. imperialism and the economic motives for European imperialism.

The Age of U.S. Imperialism: Introduction

This page introduces the concept of U.S. imperialism in the late 19th century. It features an image of Theodore Roosevelt intervening in Panama and his famous quote "Speak softly and carry a big stick; you will go far."

Definition: Imperialism refers to the quest to build a territorial empire or the control by powerful nations over less advanced areas.

The page sets the stage for exploring the reasons for U.S. imperialism in the late 1800s and its impact on American foreign policy.