Imperialist Events: United States

Boxer Rebellion

European powers were fighting over territories of China where they would have exclusive trade. These nations, Austria, Germany, France, Italy, Great Britain, Russia, and Japan, each claimed exclusive trade in different parts of China where they became known as the spheres of influence. Angered by how these nations were controlling the trade system, a Chinese group known as the Fists of Righteous Harmony rose up with the intent of overthrowing the imperial Ch'ing government. They became known as boxers because many members were experienced in martial arts. In early 1900, the Boxers marched into the Chinese capital, Beijing and remained there until several months later the United States sent a military force to the capital, dismissed the Boxer Rebellion, and established an open-door policy for Chinese trade. This event connects the United States and Europe because it shows that the West is just as concerned with international trade as European nations were.

Spanish-American War

The Spanish-American War was ignited during Cuba's fight to achieve independence from Spain. Conflict sparked between the United States and Spain after the U.S. passed resolutions that granted Cuban citizens their independence and called for the removal of Spanish troops on Cuban soil. Spain declared war on the U.S. on April 24, 1898, but were easily defeated because their military was far less experienced and prepared than that of the United States. With the Treaty of Paris signed on December 10, 1898, the Spanish ceded control of Cuba, Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines to the U.S. After the defeat, the Spanish government began focusing more on domestic affairs and it drastically improved their economy. Giving Cuba its independence, the Treaty of Paris was similar to the Berlin conference, as disputed lands were placed into the control of a specific nation.