Donald Trump’s campaign slogan ‘Make America Great Again’ has been a rallying cry for his supporters. But what era is he referencing when he says ‘again’? It appears President Trump is looking back to the time of President William McKinley, the 25th President of the United States.
McKinley, who served from 1897 to 1901, presided over a period marked by rapid industrial growth and American expansionism. During his tenure, the United States emerged victorious in the Spanish-American War, leading to the acquisition of territories such as the Philippines, Puerto Rico, Guam, and Hawaii, along with what is now known as American Samoa. This era saw the U.S. extending its influence beyond its borders, shaping its role on the global stage.
Much like McKinley, President Trump advocates for high tariffs on imports, aiming to protect American industries and workers. McKinley’s support for protective tariffs was a cornerstone of his economic policy, intended to promote domestic growth and reduce reliance on foreign goods.
By embracing McKinley’s legacy, Trump signals a desire to revive certain policies from over a century ago. This perspective raises questions about how historical approaches to trade and expansion might fit into the modern global context.
As Trump looks to the past for inspiration, the impact of applying these historical policies to today’s America remains a topic of debate, especially among young people around the world watching these developments unfold.
