Puerto Rico

Definition

Puerto Rico is an island territory of the United States located in the Caribbean, acquired following the Spanish-American War in 1898. This acquisition marked a significant shift in American expansionism, as it represented a new phase of imperialistic policies and the United States' role on the global stage.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Puerto Rico was ceded to the United States from Spain as part of the Treaty of Paris in 1898, marking its transition from a Spanish colony to a U.S. territory.
2. The island's residents were granted U.S. citizenship in 1917 through the Jones-Shafroth Act, but Puerto Ricans do not have voting representation in Congress.
3. Puerto Rico has its own local government and constitution but remains under U.S. federal jurisdiction, which creates a unique political and social dynamic.
4. The relationship between Puerto Rico and the United States has been a subject of ongoing debate, particularly regarding issues of self-determination and statehood.
5. Puerto Rico's strategic location in the Caribbean has made it important for U.S. military interests and operations throughout history.

Review Questions

• How did the acquisition of Puerto Rico impact American foreign policy and expansionism in the late 19th century?
  • The acquisition of Puerto Rico marked a pivotal moment in American foreign policy, as it symbolized a shift towards imperialism and an expanded role for the United States on the global stage. Following the Spanish-American War, America began to assert itself as a colonial power, acquiring not only Puerto Rico but also Guam and the Philippines. This led to debates about American identity, democracy, and responsibility toward newly acquired territories.
• Discuss the implications of the Insular Cases on the rights of Puerto Ricans and their political status within the United States.
  • The Insular Cases established that full constitutional rights were not automatically extended to inhabitants of U.S. territories like Puerto Rico. This meant that while Puerto Ricans were granted some rights, they lacked full political representation and certain legal protections enjoyed by citizens on the mainland. The decisions reinforced a tiered system of citizenship that created ongoing questions about equality and governance for Puerto Ricans.
• Evaluate how Puerto Rico's unique status influences its economic development and relationship with the mainland United States.
  • Puerto Rico's status as a U.S. territory significantly impacts its economic development due to limitations on federal funding and resources compared to states. The island struggles with high unemployment rates and public debt, partly because it cannot fully participate in federal programs that benefit states. Additionally, this unique status fuels discussions around self-determination, statehood, or independence, influencing local politics and community identity as Puerto Ricans navigate their relationship with the U.S.

Related terms

Spanish-American War: A conflict in 1898 between Spain and the United States, primarily over issues of Cuban independence, which resulted in the U.S. acquiring territories including Puerto Rico.

Treaty of Paris (1898): The agreement that ended the Spanish-American War, in which Spain ceded Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines to the United States.

Insular Cases: A series of U.S. Supreme Court cases that addressed the status of territories acquired by the U.S., including Puerto Rico, and determined that full constitutional rights were not automatically extended to all territories.