The article reflects on American imperialism in the late 1800s, particularly focusing on the aftermath of the Spanish-American War in 1898. It contrasts the narrative of American expansionism, framed as benevolent, with the underlying themes of exploitation and domination of territories such as Cuba and the Philippines. The author critically examines the rhetoric of manifest destiny and the so-called civilizing mission that justified these actions, referencing figures like Teddy Roosevelt and Rudyard Kipling to illustrate the complex motivations behind American imperial endeavors.
A few years ago, I came across an old book at an estate sale. Its title caught my eye: "Our New Possessions." Its cover featured the Statue of Liberty against stylized stars and stripes.
The year that imperial celebration was published-1898-won't surprise students of US history. America had just won its splendid little imperial war with Spain.
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