Insular Cases (jan 1, 1901 – dec 31, 1901)

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As the U.S. acquired more and more territories, the question of whether or not the inhabitants of these territories should be extended Constitutional rights became an increasingly urgent one. Anti-imperialists argued that yes, since the territories were part of the U.S. and waved the American flag, even if they weren’t states, their inhabitants should have protected Constitutional rights. However, imperialists disagreed, arguing that it should be left up to Congress to decide if a territory should be extended these rights. The debate was resolved in a string of Supreme Court Cases known as the insular cases which spanned from 1901-1903. Ultimately, SCOTUS sided with the imperialists and left the decision (as to whether or not territories should receive constitutional rights) up to Congress.

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