How did the U.S. justify its actions in the Philippines during the Philippine-American War?

Study for the American Imperialism Exam. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with explanations. Prepare for success!

The justification for U.S. actions in the Philippines during the Philippine-American War centered around the belief that it was a moral obligation to 'civilize' the Filipino people. This notion was rooted in a broader context of imperialism, where the U.S. viewed itself as a progressive force, tasked with bringing democracy, education, and modernization to nations deemed 'backward' or 'uncivilized.' This paternalistic approach was influenced by the prevailing ideology known as the "white man's burden," which suggested it was the duty of Western powers to guide less developed regions toward improvement and prosperity.

The U.S. government promoted the idea that their presence in the Philippines would lead to the betterment of Filipino society—an argument that was used to justify military actions and the suppression of independence movements. Rather than acknowledging the desire of many Filipinos for self-rule, the U.S. framed its intervention as benevolent and beneficial, despite the significant and often violent conflict that ensued.

This perspective also shaped public opinion in the U.S., allowing supporters of imperialism to present the war not just as a territorial expansion but as a compassionate endeavor to uplift another people. Thus, the justification based on a moral obligation was pivotal in framing the U.S. role in the

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy