Arguments in favor of keeping the Philippines:
1. Economic Benefits: The Philippines had valuable natural resources, which could benefit the expanding US economy.
2. Strategic Importance: The Philippines provided access to the Asian markets and was deemed crucial to the US's growing influence in the region.
3. Religious and Cultural Influence: Some American citizens saw an opportunity to spread Christianity and American values in the Philippines.
Arguments against keeping the Philippines:
1. Imperialism: Critics argued that keeping the Philippines was a violation of the principles of self-determination and independence, which the US claimed to support in other regions.
2. Expensive Administration: The Philippine-American War and subsequent campaigns to suppress independence movements proved costly for the US, both financially and in terms of human lives.
3. Moral Responsibilities: Many felt the US had a responsibility to help the Filipino people achieve independence, as they had fought against Spanish rule alongside US forces.
4. Lack of US Preparedness: Some argued that the US was not ready administratively and culturally to govern a diverse population in a way that would benefit both parties involved.
Outcome:
The US administration under President Theodore Roosevelt took the decision to retain the Philippines as a territory, albeit granting increased autonomy and pledging eventual independence. However, complete Philippine independence was not recognized until 1946, following World War II and an extended transition period.
In summary, the decision of whether it was right for the US to keep the Philippines ignited debates that are still relevant in discussions on postcolonialism, imperialism, and the roles of nations in the global power dynamics of the time.