Foreign Policies

Throughout American history there have been many established foreign policies. A foreign policy is a plan of action created by the leader of a nation in regards to its diplomatic dealings with other countries. These policies have helped many nations systematically deal with issues that arise between different nations. Such policies are also installed to ensure the safety domestically as well as overseas. Foreign policies also help leaders make important decisions in times of crisis. Many foreign policies have had major influences on our global community. Also, many foreign policies exhibit the want for self-interest in a nation.
One foreign policy that sparked debate over whether it was in the nation’s interest, was the acquisition of the Philippines in 1898. As a result of the Spanish-American war the nations involved eventually agreed on the Treaty of Paris. After various negotiations the Philippines was given to the United States for twenty million dollars as a clause to the treaty. The Senate approved the treaty in 1899 but only by a small amount of votes. The Filipino people strongly resisted annexation by the United States. They declared themselves a republic under the the guidance of Emilio Aguinaldo. Aguinaldo was also involved in discussions when the Philippines were fighting Spain for their independence.
As a result of the tension between the two countries they soon entered war. The war was called the United States-Filipino war which lasted for three years. Over four thousand Americans lost their lives fighting during the war. Whereas, some sixteen thousand Filipinos died fighting for their country’s independence. Also many Filipinos died because of lack of food or various diseases. Although at the end of the war the Philippines were still under the control of the United States. The United States was interested in the country because they felt it would benefit the nation financially. Also to stand out as a world power the need for naval bases in...