Economic: Continuing Effects of Industrialization
Industrialized city
During America's period of Imperialism the effects of Industrialization were still fueling the economy. The production of capital was aided by newer, faster, and more efficient machines found in the factories. These machines produced an abundance of necessary materials, too much in fact, for the U.S. alone. It became necessary for American companies and factories to sell many of their goods to other countries that required them. Asia, Africa, and Latin America provided new customers and markets for American goods. The telegraph, steamship and railroad made reaching distant and remote markets possible. These economic opportunities fueled the economy across the nation.
Social: Social Darwinism
Political cartoon of Social Darwinism
An imperialistic attitude arose in the U.S. mainly because of the development of Social Darwinism. Social Darwinism is the idea that certain races of people are superior to others. It is a form of racism, and the United States it was common for Caucasians to believe they were superior to others especially those Africa, India and any other areas they planned to spread their influence to. Many people who followed this idea also believed that they could help these "inferior" races by forcing their ideas and religion on them. White Americans thought that by spreading Christianity to these countries it would enhance the lives of the "inferior" races.
Political: Spreading Democracy
Political cartoon of Spreading Democracy
Along with the idea of spreading Christianity to these foreign countries came the idea of spreading democracy.The people who supported this idea once again thought that it would enhance the society of "inferior" races. It was believed by many that a democratic government was superior to other government, just like Christianity. To spread the U.S. system of government, the U.S. established control in foreign countries such as the Philippines. The native people of these countries would rebel against American control, but the U.S. military would fight and push back these rebellions forcing themselves even farther into these peoples lives and society.
Do these events show progress?
Once again there are aspects of this time period that are clear examples of America's lack of progress while others are examples of progress. During the Imperial age of the U.S. the economy was continuing along the path of industrialization, a path already proven to show progress. The political and Social aspects, however, are quite the opposite. Social Darwinism and the movement to spread democracy are yet again examples of bigotry and intolerance. These arose from American citizens incapability to accept, understand, and respect other cultures. The fact that this can be seen yet again during this time shows a severe lack of progress in people's views.