imperialism
the actions used by one nation to exercise political or economic control over smaller or weaker nations
isolationism
a policy of avoiding political or military involvement with other countries
social darwinism
The application of ideas about evolution and "survival of the fittest" to human societies - particularly as a justification for their imperialist expansion.
monroe doctrine
an American foreign policy opposing interference in the Western hemisphere from outside powers
manifest destiny
a belief shared by many Americans in the mid-1800s that the United States should expand across the continent to the Pacific Ocean
platt amendment
This amendment to the new Cuban constitution authorized U.S. intervention in Cuba to protect its interests. Cuba pledged not to make treates with other countries that might compromise its independence, and it granted naval bases to the United States, most notable being Guantanamo Bay.
open door policy
A policy proposed by the US in 1899, under which ALL nations would have equal opportunities to trade in China.
spanish american war
War fought between the US and Spain in Cuba and the Philippines. It lasted less than 3 months and resulted in Cuba's independence as well as the US annexing Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines.