The Main Forces of the United States Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

The Main Forces of the United States - Essay Example This motive had been echoed earlier on by Beveridge when he stated that ‘it may be that we will not annex the Philippines, Hawaii, and Cuba: but events will annex them†¦Ã¢â‚¬â„¢ (Ayers, 2009). The forces that were instrumental in this movement were the politicians and other state leaders who wanted to see the United States become an imperial power. Initially, Americas’ involvement in the war was purely humanitarian. They wanted to offer their support to the Cubans who were fighting for their independence against the Spanish Navy. However, their change after a presidential decree by McKinley who wanted to assist the Cubans to gain their freedom from the Spaniards (Ayers, 2009, p 489). This interference brought them to war with the Spanish Navy, a war which they wore due to their superior Navy skills and equipment. It was after this conflict with the Spanish that the Americans sought to acquire more territory in areas such as Philippines and Hawaii. They wanted to rid of European rule in these nations and spread their own beliefs and practices. Among the notable voices of imperialism was that of Albert Beveridge. Even at a young age, his superior oratory skills made him the focus of attention. He had been quoted championing for imperialism on a number of occasions, the most memorable being his argument that America needed to spread its liberty, civilization and the kingdom of God here on earth. It is such remarks that have been echoed by the American foreign policy, even to this day. At first, the United States was separated geographically from the rest of the European countries, thus could not participate in the acquisition. Additionally, it was guided by the Monroe Declaration that prohibited it from interfering with the affairs of other nations. The only exception was when they stepped in to offer humanitarian aid to the affected nations.