U.S Empire and Its Influence on Puerto Rico and Philippines

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The United States (U.S.) Empire Essay
Introduction
"Empire" from the U.S perspective refers to or relates to the country's influence on social, cultural, economic, political, and even military factors (Ferguson 276). America aborted its prolonged dedication to isolationism to be an imperial power in the late 20th century. The U.S gained utter control over territorial regions such as Puerto Rico, Philippines, Hawaii, and Cuba after the Spanish-American War, which ended in 1898. An increasing desire for the latest markets for its industrial commodities and the perception of the citizens' cultural and racial superiority encouraged the U.S to go on with the imperial motive. The essay paper will examine the U.S Empire and draw comparative perspectives on its influence on Puerto Rico and the Philippines.
Description of the U.S. Empire, including the Motivating Factors
           The U.S was one of the world regions to seek power through various strategies, one approach being imperialism. Remarkably, only two powers, the European and British powers, were primarily the main threats to America. However, many different states sought to embrace imperialism to gain power and be competitive over others. Therefore, this competition for power from numerous countries was the major driving factor that motivated the U.S to go for power. According to various sources, U.S imperialism was a concept that referred to America's influence on the global space regarding factors such as culture, economy, and culture. Moreover, the imperialistic perception and the desire for growth, and a sense of superiority influenced many nations to search for power in different contexts (Burbank & Cooper 256). Thayer Mahan, a Naval Officer, argued that it was the right moment for America to be robust regardless of other regions' unwillingness. The nation's growth capacity in economic, military, and social contexts demands America to seek power and be influential over others. For instance, since society was constantly expanding and the economy was also developing significantly, the focus was to encourage territorial expansion and power gain amongst other regions.
           Acquiring land, military, and economic value was the country's greatest desire. Having all the desired interests would help the U.S to gain power and, in turn, stimulate economic development appropriately. The U.S engaged actively in war with Spain in the late nineteenth century. The two countries' war led to a territorial empire whereby America acquired various significant territories. Examples of these essential territories for the nation included Cuba, Philippines, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, Hawaii, and Gaum. Each contributed uniquely to the U.S's influence in the respective regions. For example, America seized Hawaii towards the end of the 19th century. Capturing its territories meant obtaining the land. Such a decision resulted in a sense of superiority in distinct nations.
Most importantly, the acquisitions were significant because they opened and gave room for emergent water routes that promoted trade and every possible business activity. Burbank and Cooper (331) argued that t...