Expansion posed a significant challenge for the United States, akin to the struggles faced by other colonial powers. As the U.S. exerted influence over various countries, it encountered a dilemma regarding the balance of democracy and control. Allowing these nations to develop democratic governance meant risking a loss of American dominance, as they might prioritize their own interests over those of the U.S.

This situation highlights the tension between promoting self-determination and maintaining strategic influence. For the United States, fostering democracy abroad could lead to unpredictability in international relations, ultimately threatening its goals and power in the region.