"Colony,"--or "Free State"? "Dependence,"--or "Just Connection"? "Empire,"--or "Union"?

by Alpheus Henry Snow

"Colony, or Free State? Dependence, or Just Connection? Empire, or Union?" by Alpheus H. Snow is a political essay written in the early 20th century that examines the philosophical foundations of the relationship between the United States and its annexed territories following the Spanish-American War. The work analyzes the implications of American governance over regions like Puerto Rico and the Philippines, spotlighting the tension between ideals of self-governance and the reality of colonial administration. This inquiry encourages readers to reconsider the terms used to describe such relationships, advocating for concepts like "free state" and "just connection" over more imperialistic language. The opening of the essay sets the stage for a nuanced discussion regarding the political dynamics that emerged from America's colonial expansion in the late 19th century. It highlights the differing views of the Republican and Democratic parties concerning governance and imperialism, and emphasizes the legacy of the American Revolution's philosophical ideals. Snow presents the Declaration of Independence as a critical text for understanding America's entitlement to self-determination and equality, framing his discussion around the necessity of clarifying the relationship between the American Union and its distant territories. His examination of terminology and philosophical interpretations of governance promises to provoke thoughtful reflection on the inherent principles guiding American democracy.