America Reaches Across the Pacific
Trace how the US purchased Alaska, annexed Hawaii, and built Pacific influence as part of its late 19th-century imperial expansion in Grade 8 history.
Key Concepts
The United States began expanding its influence across the Pacific Ocean. In 1867, the U.S. purchased Alaska from Russia, a move that many at first criticized. Later, American business leaders in Hawaii overthrew the monarchy. This action led the U.S. to annex the islands in 1898 for their valuable resources and strategic location.
To secure its economic interests in Asia, the U.S. also looked to China. Fearing that European powers would block American trade, the government proposed the Open Door Policy . This policy aimed to give all nations equal trading rights in China, ensuring the U.S. would not be shut out of this large market.
Common Questions
Why did the US purchase Alaska from Russia?
Secretary of State Seward purchased Alaska in 1867 for $7.2 million, expanding American territory despite critics who mocked it as 'Seward's Folly' for what proved to be its vast resources.
How did the US annex Hawaii?
American sugar planters overthrew the Hawaiian queen in 1893 with US military support, and Congress formally annexed Hawaii in 1898 for its strategic Pacific location.
Why was Pacific expansion important to US strategy?
Pacific bases like Hawaii gave the US naval refueling stations and strategic positions needed to protect trade routes and project military power across the Pacific Ocean.