U.S. President Donald Trump’s frequent invocation of the slogan "Make America Great Again" has long sparked debates about which era he aims to resurrect. In recent remarks, Trump pointed to the late 19th-century leadership of William McKinley, the 25th U.S. president, as a model. McKinley’s tenure (1897–1901) marked a transformative period of American expansionism and protectionist trade policies — themes resonating in today’s geopolitical landscape.
McKinley’s presidency saw the U.S. secure victory in the Spanish-American War, consolidating control over territories including the Philippines, Guam, and Puerto Rico. His advocacy for high tariffs to shield domestic industries also shaped early 20th-century economic policy. Trump’s alignment with these policies raises questions about their potential impact on contemporary U.S.-Asia relations, particularly as nations navigate trade disputes and strategic alliances.
CGTN’s White House Correspondent Nathan King notes that Trump’s admiration for McKinley underscores a focus on assertive trade strategies and territorial influence — factors that could recalibrate America’s engagement with Asian economies and regional security dynamics. Analysts suggest this historical parallel may signal renewed attention to protectionism, affecting global supply chains and investment flows.
For Asia-Pacific stakeholders, the revival of McKinley-era principles highlights both risks and opportunities. Business leaders and policymakers are closely monitoring how shifts in U.S. trade posture could influence markets, while historians emphasize lessons from the complex legacy of American expansionism.
