Part 6/8:
As the decades rolled on, Hay frequently found himself in critical positions of influence. Appointed by President Hayes as Assistant Secretary of State, he also played a major role in the administration of President McKinley. His contributions as Secretary of State were vital as America emerged from the Spanish-American War, and he negotiated several key treaties that expanded U.S. territorial holdings, including the Philippines and Puerto Rico.
Moreover, Hay contributed to significant foreign policies, such as the Open Door Policy for China, aimed at ensuring free trade in the Far East. However, these advances came amidst rising tensions, epitomized by the Boxer Rebellion, which required diplomatic finesse and negotiation strategy.