Pro-Imperialism / Anti-Imperialism
-  Offers new “frontier” for the
American imagination and spirit
-  Celebrates American ideals and
Goals (Manifest Destiny)
-  Important for expanding
economic, military, and cultural
interest abroad (thirst for new
markets, influence, etc.)
-  Important for the United States to
protect itself and remain strong
in world affairs (becoming a legit
world power) / -  Rejects the foundation of American
ideals and democracy (freedom & liberty)
-  “The constitution must follow the flag”;
The same freedoms that apply to
United States citizens should apply
To people in nations under US control
-  Contains elements of racism (White
Man’s Burden)
-  Allows the entrance of too many
People with different ethnic and
Racial backgrounds into this country
(Nativism movement)
-  Economic arguments: costly to
Maintain a strong military presence;
Increased competition from foreign
Industries and labor (not worth potential
Costs)