ABSTRACT
Against a background of declining European empires in the Caribbean basin, the United States emerged as a major presence in the area. On the eve of the Spanish-American war in 1898, Spain’s hold was already tenuous. French interests were still involved in a failing effort to complete an isthmian canal through Colombian-held Panama. British policy makers were increasingly preoccupied with South Africa and the growing strength of Germany on the continent. Germany itself at the turn of the century did have what one historian has referred to as “dreams of empire;” its warships cruised the Caribbean basin reporting on economic, political and military developments, with a particular eye on opportunities for German developments, and its merchants and citizens were active in establishing business interests in the region, especially Venezuela. 1
