Anti-Imperialism Editorial: Spanish American War

Anti-Imperialism Editorial- Spanish American War The Spanish American War is simply an abomination of American morals and ideals. Spain and the United States are currently in conflict, as a result of American intervention in Cuba. America has yet again impressed its indomitable will upon fledgling nations, and in this case, one that did not even need “help” especially since it was already under Spanish control, regardless of how relaxed or ineffective that role may have been. This war has become an important one, even inside American borders. The war is taking American troops away from protecting the country, and is taking them to go fight other countries battles. This is incredibly irresponsible of the United States government, because
the war could have easily been avoided, thereby saving money and American resources. The issue of this war is over Cuban independence, and has little direct effect on the United States, besides some minor effect on economic claims made in Cuba. Mark Twain, a renowned anti-imperialist, has stated his opinion on the matter, saying, “It should, it seems to me, be our pleasure and duty to make those people free, and let them deal with their own domestic questions in their own way. And so I am an anti-imperialist. I am opposed to having the eagle put its talons on any other land.” This seems to sum up many Americans feelings on the matter, especially since the United States tends to force democracy on other nations.
Political cartoon of how the United States has bitten off more than it can chew with all the new territories and it’s ‘sphere of influence.’ There is possible neglect within the states.
Political cartoon of how the United States has bitten off more than it can chew with all the new territories and it’s ‘sphere of influence.’ There is possible neglect within the states.

One may say that as such a prosperous and successful nation; we must share the knowledge and wealth with these fledgling nations. They argue that we are racially superior, and therefore have dominance over any and all countries that don’t happen to be as economically or democratically successful as the United States, or any other European powers. Regarding the issue with Cuba, many pro-imperialists simply want to prevent any Communist influence in the country, and the consequential ‘domino effect’ that communism may cause in other countries. However, shoving democracy down the throats of the Cubans is no way to spread democracy, and the ‘domino effect’ is not a realistic foretelling at all. Starting a war with the Spanish does little to spread American ideals and democracy, and more to spread hatred and imperialism, two ideals that the United States seems to be known for. One might ask, is this war with Spain necessary? Is the protection of democracy in Cuba really so important? Do we really need Cuba’s prosperous sugar industry for the United States own economic reassurance so much that the Spanish American War had to be started?