Florida Teacher Certification Examinations (FTCE) Social Science Practice Test

What was one of the main outcomes of Roosevelt's "Big Stick" diplomacy?

1. Increased isolationism

2. Expansion of U.S. territorial influence

3. Reduction of military expenditures

4. Withdrawal from international conflicts

The correct answer is: Expansion of U.S. territorial influence

The main outcome of Roosevelt's "Big Stick" diplomacy was indeed the expansion of U.S. territorial influence. This approach emphasized America’s willingness to use military force to achieve its foreign policy goals while simultaneously promoting diplomacy when feasible. Roosevelt believed that a strong military presence was essential for maintaining order and stability, particularly in Latin America, as exemplified by the Roosevelt Corollary to the Monroe Doctrine. Through this strategy, the United States asserted itself as a dominant power in the Western Hemisphere, exemplified by actions such as the construction of the Panama Canal, which facilitated trade and military movement. Moreover, the "Big Stick" policy often led to increased interventions in the affairs of Latin American nations, further extending U.S. influence. The approach highlighted the interplay between diplomatic negotiations backed by the threat of military action, thereby allowing the United States to expand its territorial and strategic interests effectively.