In Stephen Kinzer's book "Overthrow: America's Century of Regime Change from Hawaii to Iraq," he examines the mindset of American leaders during periods of imperial expansion. A notable quote reveals President McKinley's disbelief regarding Aguinaldo's Filipino insurgents, whom he thought would surely recognize the power and good intentions of the United States.

This perspective highlights a common theme in U.S. foreign policy at the time: an expectation that other nations would appreciate American influence and authority. McKinley's underestimation of the insurgents reflects a broader tendency among American policymakers to overlook the complexities and aspirations of those they sought to govern.