The Main Driving Force Behind American Foreign Policy Between 1890-1933

It is said that a historian has argued that American foreign policy between 1890 and 1933 can be best explained as “an effort to expand its overseas markets.” I would argue that while the main driving force behind our foreign policy at the time may have been economic, a “dark side” to this ordeal can be found with a little research.

To a degree, the unnamed historian is correct in the fact that our foreign policy had much to do with opening up trade with foreign countries. For example, Taft was known for his "Dollar Diplomacy" which was an attempt to open the door in Asia and open economic diplomacy like never before. This was understandable, for at the time (a polar opposite of what happens today) the United States sold many things across the world and the opening of doors would mean a lot to the United States economy. This, however, is where I beg to differ on the historians summary of 1890-1933's foreign policy in the United States. I believe there was a darker reason that some held for the enthusiasm of opening doors in Asia.
The idea that the "civilize the uncivilized" was driven by racism. It wasn't uncommon for missionaries to go over and try and convert those of China not only to Christianity but also to the ways of American life. Even the beloved Theodore Roosevelt, who is one of my personal favorite presidents was guilty of trying to carry the fictitious "White Man's Burden" in Cuba during the Spanish-American