The Rise of the American Empire: Imperialism and Expansion at the Close of the 19th Century

The close of the 19th century marked a pivotal moment in the history of the United States. As the nation emerged from the shadows of its Civil War and Reconstruction, it began to shift from a focus on continental expansion to seeking influence beyond its borders. The idea of empire, which had long been reserved for European powers, began to take root in the American consciousness. This expansionist impulse was shaped by a variety of factors—economic, political, ideological, and military—tha...