Notes on ch. 21 In the latter part of the 19th century many people interpreted Charles Darwin?s theory of evolution as applicable to people and countries. theory of Social Darwinism Consequently, many thought that it was time for the U.S. to acquire an empire for many believed that the world should belong to nations that were strong and fit Where to go? the Pacific -most notably Samoa and Hawaii Samoa -Samoa had a natural harbor in its capital of Pago Pago, and its archipelago of islands commanded over important sea-lanes in the pacific 1878 A Samoan prince came to the U.S. and negotiated a treaty The Treaty called for - a coaling station at Pago Pago for U.S. ships - the U.S. would help Samoa if it had ?differences? with another nation