TOW #23 - Political Cartoon of American Imperialism

American Imperialism

     During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the United States began to develop an interest in expanding past their borders. Spanish militarism in Cuba provided the United States with an opportunity to begin this involvement in Latin American affairs. This ultimately led to the Spanish American war which provided the United States with many new acquisitions: Hawaii, Cuba, Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines. Although some claimed that these actions were purely humanitarian, others argue that it was primarily out of greed and selfishness. In this political cartoon, artist Jeanine Sabbbah shines light on the ethnocentrism behind American expansionism to prove that US imperialism was driven not only by humanitarian reasons but also militaristic and economic gains.
     Facial expressions are very significant in this cartoon, from the children up front squirming in horror at Uncle Sam to the Chinaman standing out of place in the doorway. Uncle Sam's condescending look as he faces the children of the islands shows how the U.S. viewed the Latin American islanders as inferior. This is relevant to the time period because many people used Social Darwinism to justify the monopoly of minorities. As seen with Cuba, Philippines, Hawaii, and Guam's faces leaning back in fright, it can be understood that the artist felt US imperialism was an aggressive policy.  The use of facial expressions helped in conveying the emotional downsides of imperialism.
     Clothing is also a very important device that helped the artist in achieving his purpose. Uncle Sam is the most obvious displays of nationalistic clothing with his red and white striped pants and start-dotted vest. He is seen wielding a stick towards the island children who are dressed in very American, westernized clothing. This is a portrayal of the US attempting to assimilate the minority to their standards under the pretense of mentoring them, as a teacher would a student. However, in the right corner the Chinaman and Native American are donning traditional outfits. This shows how the United States pushed away the Native American and China issue, not even bothering to dress like Americans do.  

     This political cartoon showed US imperialism as a form of teaching and learning under the pressure of assimilating to American culture. Many people felt that because it was under the decree of Uncle Sam, it was patriotic and nationalistic to support the cause. However, artist Jeanine Sabbbah felt a need to educate Americans on a different perspective of what US imperialism truly entails. It is through her use of facial expressions and clothing in this political cartoon that she is able to shine light on the darker sides of imperialism.