Key Figures Driving U.S. Imperialism

Several important people helped push the United States toward imperialism in the late 1800s.

Josiah Strong argued that Americans had a duty to spread Christianity and American values,

while Alfred Thayer Mahan believed a strong navy and overseas bases were necessary for national

power. Their ideas strongly influenced U.S. foreign policy. James G.

Blaine promoted the “Big Sister” policy, which encouraged the U.S.

to lead Latin America and expand trade while limiting European influence. In Hawaii,

Queen Liliuokalani tried to restore native rule, but American planters overthrew her,

leading to Hawaii’s annexation. During the Spanish-American War, William Randolph