American imperialism in the late 1800's was a break in American foreign policy. America has always wanted to expand the country. In the 1880's, many people thought that America should join countries such as England and set up colonies overseas. Imperialism is when a bigger, stronger country wants to control other smaller and weaker territories.At that time, imperialism was a trend around the world. America became an imperialist nation because of economic reasons, militery interests,and cultural superiority.
Leaders of the economy said that expanding the country would increase the nations wealth. William Seward purchased Alaska from Russia. Everyone criticized him for it. They would call Alaska "Seward's Icebox", or they would call it, "Polar Bear Garden". As it turns out, the purchase of Alaska turned out to be a bargain for the country. …
