Expansionism in the late 19th/early 20th century Expansionism in America in the late 19th and early 20th centuries shared many similarities and differences with that of previous American expansionist ideals. In both cases of American expansionism, Americans believed that we needed to expand our borders in order to keep the country on its feet. Furthermore, Americans believed that the United States was the strongest nation and that they could take any land they wanted. This is demonstrated in "Manifest Destiny" of the 1840s and "Darwinism" of the late 1800s and early 1900s. Besides the similarities, there were also several differences, including the American attempt to expand its empire beyond the seas and in other parts of the world. Throughout history, the United States has proven itself to be a stubborn nation that took what it wanted at any time. at all costs. This happened in both cases of expansion, as Americans risked war and national security to gain land, or even just to prove their point. During the early years of their expansion, the Americans had pushed aside Native Americans and anyone else who inhabited the land they wanted. They believed that the land was rightfully theirs and that everyone else was just squatting on their territory. This idea continued into the early 20th century, as Americans looked to the oceans to find new territories for their kingdom. This idea is amply illustrated in Document "E", in which Senator Albert J. Beveridge delivers a speech to Congress, saying that "...and thanks be to Almighty God that he has marked us as his chosen people, for now lead the regeneration of the world…” However, contrary to America's previous beliefs, the race for expansion has become more of a global competition than one for control of the surrounding lands. Other countries were quickly reclaiming the remaining uncontrolled territories, and America felt it had to get its hand in imperialism across the world. The caricature presented in document "A" shows how all European countries seized the lands still open to capture. In addition to the feeling of “catching up” compared to other nations in the world. America also felt more powerful than ever, with an improving navy to boot, turning its attention to the seas for conquest. During early attempts at expansion, America had virtually no navy, making overseas conquest beyond its reach, leaving only the surrounding areas to seize...