Why did the U.S. support regimes in Latin America during the early 20th century?

The United States supported regimes in Latin America during the early 20th century primarily to ensure stability for American business interests. This period was characterized by significant U.S. investments in various Latin American countries, particularly in sectors such as agriculture, mining, and infrastructure. The U.S. government often intervened in these countries to maintain favorable conditions for American businesses, sometimes by supporting authoritarian regimes that would uphold American interests and suppress local dissent or instability that could threaten investments. This strategy was seen as a way to safeguard economic interests and ensure that U.S. companies could operate with minimal disruption, illustrating the larger theme of American imperialism where economic motivations drove foreign policy decisions.

The focus on promoting business stability was often prioritized over other ideals like cultural exchange or democracy, as the U.S. interventions were driven more by the desire to maintain favorable conditions for American enterprises rather than by a commitment to spreading democratic values or reducing immigration.