American Expansionism Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 1

American Expansionism - Essay Example However, the expansionism was not good for the American population and other people across the world. The most important reason why United States wanted to expand was for economic benefits. During the time of Confederation, the United States continued to extend its territory westwards. For instance, between 1960 and 1890, United States created nine new states after purchasing Alaska from Russia. After the end of the American Civil War, the interests of expanding the country’s territory rejuvenated. There was renewed investment in land, railway construction, and exploitation of natural resources in the west part of the country. The American traders started looking for land for investment in the western part of Canada. This raised the interests of the country towards this part. This is because majority of these investors opted to settle in these areas. Americans believed that acquiring more territory will make it easy for them to produce products at decreased costs. The second aspect that led to expansion is the spirit of nationalism. With the European nations expanding their t erritories, Americans also wanted to take pride in expanding its boundaries further. This was fueled by the increased scramble for territory by other major economies. United States expanded its role and influence through military influence. For instance, the country treated its colonies as military bases. The country established military bases in these areas in order to take control of their economic, political, and social activities. Secondly, the US used its cultural influence to expand its role. The country expanded its cultural ideologies to other areas. This was achieved through the spirit of nationalism and propaganda. Thirdly, the US used economic influence to expand its boundaries. This is through funding major investments in the