America had remained mostly an isolated country until the late 1800's when the United States was faced with the opportunity of building a colonial empire. By 1890 the United States, like Europe, had began to expand its influence onto islands in the Caribbean and South Pacific areas. They entered in other countries' affairs claiming that it served the interests of all peoples and were motivated by Idealism. In reality, the United States was mostly after its own self-interest. The Spanish-American War, the United States' Open Door policy, and the control over the Panama Canal zone make it unclear if the...
Canal was built by the United States for the use of the United States. The United States needed a shorter route from one ocean to the other for its warships. This was a perfect example of how America was interested only in itself.

The United States Argued that American foreign policy was inspired by Idealism. Though in some cases it was, like in the Spanish-American War, it was mostly for their advantage. The United States had ended isolation for thier benefit. Examples of how this is true is the Open Door Policy and the building of the Panama Canal.