During the 19th century, the United States of America was a fairly new country. While many countries in Europe like England and France prospered, the United States was still finding its way. By the late 19th century, the United States started to adapt to Imperialistic ideas. Imperialism means control of a powerful country over a weaker country. I believe that the United States should enter the ranks of the Imperialist powers because their military can grow, their economy can improve and it will create cultural superiority.
The first concept of Imperialism is to achieve a greater military power. If the United States improved their military up to par with the other world powers, they would be heading into the path to becoming a world power. Alfred T. Mahan, a United States Navy Admiral and one of the fathers of United States Imperialism says, “Therefore we need to build a more powerful navy to protect our harbors and ships and to extend our influence to other parts of the world. Moreover, there are threats to peace all over the world.” This quote proves that United States imperialism is required. If the United States starts to expand, they will become a possible threat to the other powers. If they have a well-equipped military they will be able to prove their worth to the other powers, and if needed, be able to attack other powers and defend their homeland.
The second concept of Imperialism is to have new markets. If the United States colonizes other territories, they will have more markets to sell their goods at, which in turn will boost the United States economy. If the United States sells at more markets, they will make more money and it will grant new jobs for American ambassadors, merchants and soldiers.
The third concept of Imperialism is cultural superiority. Once the United States starts to expand, they will encounter a vast amount of cultures. If the United States of America is known, they will be respected and feared by other cultures. All new colonies will be under the American rule, and see them as their superior.
When there is support, there is always opposition. While there are many people who support the United States becoming an Imperialist nation, there are people who are against it. Liliuokalani, the former Queen of Hawaii is one of the major opposers of American Imperialism. According to her,
To conclude my argument, the United States need to enter the ranks of Imperialist powers because it will create a stronger military, it will bolster the economy and will make the United States a respected and feared power.