Economic Imperialism in East Asia

ASU HST 200 (Historical Themes) American Foreign Policy 1890-1914 Economic Imperialism in East Asia Although the United States' efforts to expand its empire started with military force, the nation also used other strategies to expand its reach and power at the same time. The United States, in particular, expanded its empire by using its industrial and economic might, as evidenced by an analysis of the China market and the "Open Door notes" that are covered below. American foreign policy saw a dramatic turn toward economic imperialism in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, especially with regard to East Asia. In addition to using economic tactics, the United States also used military force to increase its dominance and influence. During this time, the United States underwent a significant shift in its global engagement strategy, capitalizing on its growing industrial and economic might to establish its dominance in international markets. The way the United States approached the China market was one important facet of its economic imperialism in East Asia. China offered American companies looking to grow a lot of opportunities because it is one of the biggest and richest marketplaces in the world. Instead of directly colonizing or militarily conquering China, American leaders attempted to get access to this market through diplomatic channels after realizing that China had the potential to be a significant market for their products and services. During this time, the "Open Door notes" had a significant influence on US policy toward China. These remarks, put out by US Secretary of State John Hay in 1899, demanded that China's geographical integrity and sovereignty be maintained as well as that other countries have equitable access to its markets. The goal of the Open Door policy was to keep European countries from dividing China and to make sure that the US could take full advantage of the economic possibilities that the Chinese market offered. America's dedication to advancing free trade and economic liberalism internationally was mirrored in the Open Door policy. The United States aimed to establish itself as a dominant economic force in the area and positioned itself as a champion of commercial interests by promoting unrestricted access to Chinese markets. This strategy was motivated by a confluence of ideological convictions, geopolitical concerns, and economic goals. Furthermore, the pursuit of advantageous trade deals and concessions with other East Asian countries was another aspect of American economic imperialism in that region. In nations like Japan, Korea, and the Philippines, the US tried to get preferential treatment for its investments and exports through diplomatic discussions and economic pressure. The goals of these initiatives were to increase American influence in the area and open up business possibilities for US companies. During this time, the United States not only pursued economic imperialism but also other types of interference in East Asia. For instance, American dominance in the Pacific area was further expanded when the Philippines and Guam were acquired as a result of the Spanish-American War of 1898. Similar to this, American territorial authority was increased and American interests in the Pacific gained strategic benefits with the annexation of Hawaii in 1898. Generally, economic imperialism, territory expansion, and diplomatic wrangling characterized American foreign policy in East Asia from 1890 and 1914. By utilizing its economic and military might to uphold its ideals for the world order and to enforce its interests, the United States became a dominant force in the area.