Foreign Policy In the Early 20th Century in the United States

Introduction to Foreign Policy In the Early 20th Century

In the 20th century, presidents continued to set foreign policy, and their power grew significantly. For example, in 1898 President William McKinley led the nation into the Spanish-American War, despite the country’s previous policy of isolationism. He justified American involvement on moral grounds. The United States was supporting Cuba’s fight for independence from Spain. President Theodore Roosevelt further expanded American involvement abroad with actions in Latin America and elsewhere. He supported a revolt in Panama against Colombian rule in 1903 that led to an independent Panamanian government. The new government signed a treaty granting the United States the right to build the Panama Canal, a major trade route in Central America connecting the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. As a result of these actions, the presidency grew in stature and U.S. influence in global affairs also increased.” (1)

Resources

Notes and References

• Information about Foreign Policy In the Early 20th Century in the Encarta Online Encyclopedia

Guide to Foreign Policy In the Early 20th Century