Imperialism and the motives behind it can take an array of shapes and forms. In the 1890s the United States took Imperialist actions in both Cuba and the Philippines, making them the last major world power to do so, but why? US Imperialist motives include racism, nationalism, commercialism, and humanitarianism. Nevertheless not all were equally as essential and prominent as one in particular commercialism.
Dating back to early colonial America, John Winthrop's idea of a puritan "City Upon a Hill" rings true throughout American History. American's sense of nationalism, this "our country is better than your country" attitude, has come from early Anglo-Saxton society. Not only the idea of being a city upon a hill, but also America's signature Puritan work ethic played a major role in the 1890s. Americans considered themselves as the best of the best. They believed as the Anglo-Saxton race had enabled the US to become successful, and the progress in addition to the integrity of the US was a result of their valor, restlessness, and fortitude. With success comes money and with money comes power. The pride that was derived from nationalism at this time fashioned the drive to expand the power and influence of ones country. So, if money is power, by expanding their role in commerce on the international level the US increased its revenue and BANG, the US is a leading world power. Moreover, how exactly did they accomplish this? By increasing their presence in the Far East and in the west, in other words by partaking in Imperialism. (Doc A.) So, despite the fact that nationalism played a big part in US Imperialism, many of its goals and motivations lead straight to commercialism. .
In 1895, the Cuban people staged an uprising against the fraudulent Spanish tyrants that governed them. In 1896, sympathizing with their desires for freedom, the American people and Congress were all too ready and willing to fly in to aid the Cubans.