JAMES BLAINE
This political cartoon by the famed Thomas Nast shows James Blaine, Secretary of State, protecting an African-American laborer from the Chinese. The caption reads: THE CIVILIZATION OF BLAINE. Under that statement it continues, "John Confucious--"Am I not a Man and a Brother!" This statement, directly related to the Abolition Movement, freeing the slaves via the 13th Amendment, is being used here to emphasize that the Republican party, especially James Blaine, had to protect the Freedman.
During that racist period of history, the late-19th Century, John Confucious or John Chinaman was often used as a derogatory term for Chinese laborers and immigrants. The term is also used by Mark Twain and various other authors. Visual depictions generally will show the Chinese caricature with a long queue and a coolie hat.
Blaine, who is supporting the Republican party, the faction of Abraham Lincoln, was viewed as the protector of the Freed Slaves, which is depicted in this cartoon.
Blaine was the first major Republican figure of national prominence to support the exclusion of Chinese in America. His racist policies were connected to his quest for American business to expand on the backs of foreigners.
Cause: The overproduction of goods led to James Blaine taking a foreign policy stance that would win the support of American businessmen.
*American imperialism was strongly embraced by President Benjamin Harrison's Secretary of State, James Blaine.
*In 1892, Blaine had stated his belief that America had produced more than they could sell. Thus, new markets were required.
*Due to Blaine's statements, U.S. policymakers promoted expansionism to create new markets for the goods.
*Blaine denied the seeking of "annexation of territory." However, annexation did take place.
Effect: The United States entered the imperialistic age that culminated (reached its peak) with the Spanish-American War, a watershed in American history. He attempted to annex Hawaii, which was actually obtained five years later, and took a strong stance to place Samoa under American control.
During that racist period of history, the late-19th Century, John Confucious or John Chinaman was often used as a derogatory term for Chinese laborers and immigrants. The term is also used by Mark Twain and various other authors. Visual depictions generally will show the Chinese caricature with a long queue and a coolie hat.
Blaine, who is supporting the Republican party, the faction of Abraham Lincoln, was viewed as the protector of the Freed Slaves, which is depicted in this cartoon.
Blaine was the first major Republican figure of national prominence to support the exclusion of Chinese in America. His racist policies were connected to his quest for American business to expand on the backs of foreigners.
Cause: The overproduction of goods led to James Blaine taking a foreign policy stance that would win the support of American businessmen.
*American imperialism was strongly embraced by President Benjamin Harrison's Secretary of State, James Blaine.
*In 1892, Blaine had stated his belief that America had produced more than they could sell. Thus, new markets were required.
*Due to Blaine's statements, U.S. policymakers promoted expansionism to create new markets for the goods.
*Blaine denied the seeking of "annexation of territory." However, annexation did take place.
Effect: The United States entered the imperialistic age that culminated (reached its peak) with the Spanish-American War, a watershed in American history. He attempted to annex Hawaii, which was actually obtained five years later, and took a strong stance to place Samoa under American control.