US Imperialism

The United States also had its eye on the Philippines. When Spain began losing against the Filipino people, they opted to surrender to American forces and staged a mock battle to appear as if America beat Spain and won the Philippines. This suited Spain; it would rather award victory to the US, than to the Philippines, who were former "captives" of their rule.

Immediately after these events, Filipino leader Aguinaldo declared war against America beginning the Filipino-American War. American forces and leaders lobbied the American public for support, justifying that America's claim over the Philippines would bring forth democracy. But, who would this democracy serve? Anti-imperialists, like author Mark Twain, questioned this approach because it denied the Filipinos basic rights such as self-government. However, pro-imperialists won out in the end.

The effects of imperialism are seen in the education and immigration policies implemented by the United States. These policies appeared to benefit the Philippines, but actually served America’s purposes Filipino identity, values and traditions were lost and agricultural labor was exploited for America’s gain. How may these policies have other lasting effects until today?

Resources:

Cordova, T. & Espiritu, P. C. (2001) Pinoy Teach: Multicultural Curriculum, 4th Ed. Ch. 5, Under the Eagle’s Eye”

The Merriam-Webster Dictionary New Edition (2004).