What were the motives behind American overseas imperialism?

There were many motives for overseas imperialism by the United States in the late nineteenth century. Let us look at a few of them.

• The desire for overseas markets: Many American economists feared the effects of "overproduction." They thought that the domestic market was not big enough to sustain continued industrial growth. So they advocated different methods to secure overseas markets. This was especially important in China, where Secretary of State John Hay encouraged an "Open Door" policy that would allow American exports to that country's vast markets.


• Demand for cheap labor and natural resources: American investors sought to extend the nation's influence into places like Hawaii and Cuba, where sugar planters could produce their crop cheaper. American corporations like Standard Oil also sought influence around the world, including in Asia and Africa. 


• Naval bases: The United States sought to gain naval bases and coaling stations around the world, especially in the Pacific, to expand its strategic reach. This was also a major motive in gaining Hawaii as well as other Pacific islands like Guam.


• Ideological motives: These ranged from a sincere desire to spread Christianity on the part of Protestant ministers to a belief in the racial and cultural superiority of Americans. Either way, many imperialists believed that they had a natural or God-given right to exercise dominion over peoples around the world.