American Imperialism
Part 1
Complete the chart by identifying the following:
• Identify the countries or areas where the United States engaged in imperialistic actions during the period from about 1870 to 1914.
• Discuss why each area was important to American empire building (political, economic, and social).
• Explain America's expansionist ideals. What were some of the factors that justified American imperialist actions?
• Identify the current political status of these places in relation to the United States.
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Why was there interest?
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U.S. actions
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Status today
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Part 2
Answer each of the following prompts with a response of at least 200 to 300 words:
• Trace the path of American imperialism during the period from about 1870 to 1914 through political, military, and economic events. Why was the United States interested in expansion in these areas? Why was America building a global empire?
• What were the benefits of America's imperialistic actions for the people in these countries or areas? What were the disadvantages? How would you describe their experiences in terms of being conquered, assimilated, or marginalized?
• What were the moral implications of American imperialism? How did Imperialists justify their actions? How did the Anti-Imperialists justify their position? Consider the role of race, economics, science, and religion.
• What significance did the Spanish-American War have in the development of the United States as an empire and world power?
• Do you think the United States is currently an imperialist country? Why or why not?