The United States annexed or gained control over several territories and protectorates in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This included Hawaii in 1893 for its strategic location in the Pacific, Alaska purchased from Russia in 1867 for its resources, and Cuba made a protectorate in 1903 to protect US businesses. Puerto Rico and the Philippines were acquired after the Spanish-American War of 1898 for their locations, though the Filipinos resisted US control. The US also pursued an Open Door Policy in China to gain trade rights and helped build the Panama Canal from 1903-1914 for trade between Asia and Eastern markets.

1. US Territories & Protectorates

2. Hawaii (1893) US annexed at the urging of US sugar planters who wanted to get out of paying a tariff. Benefit: Strategic location in Pacific (naval base). Queen Lili: Hawaiian queen at time of annex. Wanted to return Hawaii back to her people.

3. Alaska (1867) Bought from Russia for $7.2 million. Benefit: Rich in minerals, oil, timber,etc. Also, close to Asia. Seward’s Folly: Dream to have Alaska part of US.

4. Cuba (1903) Given independence after Spanish-American War. Made it s US protectorate. Benefit: Wanted to protects US businesses (sugar, tobacco, mining, RRS, and utilities). Platt Amendment: In Cuba’s constitution, stated US has certain controls over Cuba.

5. Puerto Rico (1898) Spoils of Spanish-American War Benefit: Strategic Location in the Caribbean Sea. Used in building of Panama Canal.

6. Philippines/Guam (1898) Spoils of the Spanish-American War Benefit: Strategic location in the Pacific Ocean. Filipinos helped US fight Spain & then tried to fight US for independence, but rebellion put down. 200,000 Filipino civilians were killed.

7. China (1899) Open Door Policy: US wanted unrestricted trade rights w/ China. John Hay: Encouraged the demand of free trade. Boxer Rebellion: China tried to rid itself of “Foreign Devils.” US & European powers put down rebellion.

8. Panama Canal (1903-1914) Panama was owned by Colombia. US encouraged Panamanians to fight Columbians for independence. Benefit: Wanted a short-cut for trade from Asia to Eastern markets. US owned until 1999.