How did the U.S. justify its actions in Nicaragua during the banana wars?

The justification of U.S. actions in Nicaragua during the banana wars primarily revolved around the assertion that it was protecting American lives and property. During this period, American businesses, especially those involved in the banana trade, had significant investments in Central America. The U.S. government argued that intervention was necessary to safeguard these investments and the safety of U.S. nationals living in the region, particularly when local political instability threatened American economic interests.

This rationale often led to military interventions and political maneuvers designed to ensure a friendly government in Nicaragua that would be conducive to American business operations. By framing its actions in the context of protection, the U.S. was able to garner domestic support and justify its imperialistic actions under the guise of national security and economic stability, rather than overt military aggression. This helped create a narrative that painted the U.S. as a protector rather than as an imperialist power seeking to dominate foreign nations for its own gain.