American History

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      The Open Door Policy (1899): The Open Door Policy was a policy that called for equal access to trade in China for all nations. This policy was opposed by European powers, who wanted to control China's resources for themselves. The United States' support for the Open Door Policy showed that it was willing to intervene in foreign affairs to protect its economic interests. Theodore Roosevelt's "Big Stick" Diplomacy: Theodore Roosevelt was a president who believed in using military force to promote American interests. He coined the phrase "speak softly and carry a big stick," which meant that the United States should be prepared to use force to get what it wanted. Roosevelt's "Big Stick" diplomacy was a major departure from traditional isolationism. The World War I (1914-1918): The United States entered World War I in 1917, marking a major shift in American foreign policy. The United States had previously avoided getting involved in European wars, but it felt compelled to enter World War I to protect its interests. The war also showed that the United States was a major world power, and it led to the creation of the League of Nations, an international organization that was designed to prevent future wars. The Cold War (1947-1991): The Cold War was a period of tension and rivalry between the United States and the Soviet Union. The two countries were divided by ideology, and they competed for influence around the world. The Cold War led to the United States becoming involved in a number of proxy wars, and it also led to the development of nuclear weapons. These are just some of the factors that pushed Americans to drop traditional isolationism and engage in a more interventionist, imperialist foreign policy. The United States' role in the world has changed dramatically over time, and its foreign policy will continue to evolve in the years to come.

Sample Answer

   

There are a number of factors that pushed Americans to drop traditional isolationism and engage in a more interventionist, imperialist foreign policy.

• The Spanish-American War (1898): The Spanish-American War was a turning point in American foreign policy. The United States intervened in a war between Spain and Cuba, and as a result, the United States acquired Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines. This was the first time that the United States had acquired overseas colonies, and it marked a shift away from isolationism.