From no country and no economy, how did America rise to a World Super Power? “By 1890 the U.S. had by far the world’s most productive economy," which was very crucial to the U.S. rise as a world power status (Digital). American Industries produced twice as much as its closest competitor. “America's rise to superpower status began with its 1917 entry into World War I where they restored peace and stability in Europe and protected the Allies" (Hans). “In 1900 the U.S. concentrated 38% of the world’s wealth, 13% more than Britain."
Prior to World War I, in 1907 following a war scare with Japan, President Roosevelt sent the new-fangled Navy to an around-the-world voyage. “Twenty-two first-class battleships cruised longer than any navy before. This had two important dimensions. It highlighted U.S.’s military reach, emphasizing to Japan and Europe its capacity to defend its interests. This would also contribute in averting hostilities with Japan. Secondly, the cruise enabled Roosevelt to build congressional support for increased naval spending" (Risky). The Panama Canal that was completed in 1914 boosted U.S. trade, brought revenue from tolls, and reduced by two-thirds the distance from Puget-Sound to Cuba. Finally, it enabled the U.S. to control more efficiently its dependencies and especially in the Philippines. “Navy’s competence doubled and the supply of raw materials greatly accelerated" (risky). Finally, in 1920 the United States Navy matched the power of the British Navy. The Navy didn’t “make” America a world power but it did help and now they were an obvious World Superpower.
In the world today, the USA is still a global power no doubt. Other countries though have risen to the occasion and also joined America at the top as global powers. For this reason is why America is no longer a “World Superpower” as they were when they joined World War I and completely took over and stopped it before a lot more lives could have been lost. At that time, we had way more of an impact in the world than we do today.
By: Hudson Krommenhoek