US IMPERIALISM
U.S. Imperialism
Gandhi once said that, “I want the cultures of all lands to be blown about my house as freely as possible. But I refuse to be blown off my feet by any.” Depending on development, social status, and other additional variables, the level of validity in Gandhi’s quote varies. This has not always remained true to many countries; some groups have remained successful in keeping true to their cultures and not being influenced by outside forces, while some haven’t. Who is to blame for this culture infiltration? Most point the finger at Western Hemisphere dominance. Imperialism isn’t just “a thing of the past,” it still exists today, but not in the same context it might have 100 years ago. Today, imperialism exists, but more in a cultural sense, and the United States, itself, is one of the most contributing countries.
Specifically, to Panama, the Philippines, and Puerto Rico the impact of U.S. imperialism has been positive. While the word ‘imperialism’ has a negative connotation of forcefully taking away independence, the U.S. has done the exact opposite. To many countries we give the opportunity of freedom and democracy. Panama was ruled by Colombia until we wanted to come in and build the Panama Canal. Colombia was against our collaboration, so in exchange for the construction of the canal, we helped Panama overthrow their government. Both Panama and the U.S. were beneficial in working together, socially Panamanians were happy and liked the balance of help from America, because they had liberty and equality, and economically, both countries benefitted from the revenue. We gained Puerto Rico from the Spanish American War; we supported them economically and presently still retain an important economic relationship. With the help and influence from America, Puerto Rico has maintained an independent free government. Along with helping and being an important influence in government, the people of these two areas have adapted some American culture. Industry,
Gandhi once said that, “I want the cultures of all lands to be blown about my house as freely as possible. But I refuse to be blown off my feet by any.” Depending on development, social status, and other additional variables, the level of validity in Gandhi’s quote varies. This has not always remained true to many countries; some groups have remained successful in keeping true to their cultures and not being influenced by outside forces, while some haven’t. Who is to blame for this culture infiltration? Most point the finger at Western Hemisphere dominance. Imperialism isn’t just “a thing of the past,” it still exists today, but not in the same context it might have 100 years ago. Today, imperialism exists, but more in a cultural sense, and the United States, itself, is one of the most contributing countries.
Specifically, to Panama, the Philippines, and Puerto Rico the impact of U.S. imperialism has been positive. While the word ‘imperialism’ has a negative connotation of forcefully taking away independence, the U.S. has done the exact opposite. To many countries we give the opportunity of freedom and democracy. Panama was ruled by Colombia until we wanted to come in and build the Panama Canal. Colombia was against our collaboration, so in exchange for the construction of the canal, we helped Panama overthrow their government. Both Panama and the U.S. were beneficial in working together, socially Panamanians were happy and liked the balance of help from America, because they had liberty and equality, and economically, both countries benefitted from the revenue. We gained Puerto Rico from the Spanish American War; we supported them economically and presently still retain an important economic relationship. With the help and influence from America, Puerto Rico has maintained an independent free government. Along with helping and being an important influence in government, the people of these two areas have adapted some American culture. Industry,