AP US History in 1 Minute Daily: Imperialism (Day 217/309)

Hey APUSHers, let’s chat about Imperialism as part of my series- APUSH in 1 Minute Daily!

Lesson for Anti-Expansionists, Wikimedia Commons

Imperialism in the early 20th century manifested as the expansionist policies of powerful nations seeking to extend their influence and control over other territories. 

“Well, I Hardly Know Which to Take First,” Library of Congress

Economically, industrialized nations pursued overseas territories to secure new markets and access raw materials, fostering economic growth. Nationalism fueled this desire for territorial expansion and global prestige, intensifying competition among nations. 

Great White Fleet Return, Wikimedia Commons

The acquisition of overseas territories was often driven by a desire to establish strategic military bases and secure naval supremacy.

“The White Man’s Burden,” Wikimedia Commons

Some justified imperialism under the guise of spreading Christianity, bringing civilization, or carrying out humanitarian missions. The belief in cultural and racial superiority was encapsulated by Social Darwinism and was satirically known as the “White Man’s Burden.”

Imperialism refers to the expansionist policies of powerful nations seeking to extend their influence and control over other territories and was fueled by efforts to obtain economic, political, and military dominance.

Join me tomorrow as I explain the Purchase of Alaska in the next APUSH in 1 Minute Daily!