U.S. Imperialism and Its Consequences

The transcript discusses the rise of American imperialism in the late 19th century, highlighting the economic, political, and ideological factors that drove the United States to expand its influence globally. Key figures like Josiah Strong and Alfred T. Mahan advocated for expansion, while the Spanish-American War marked a turning point in America's emergence as a world power. The formation of an American Empire brought challenges and sparked debates about democracy, race, and citizenship, with the Anti-Imperialist League opposing imperialism. The transcript concludes with the unresolved questions of freedom and national identity that persisted into the 20th century.

What was the primary reason for the United States to begin seeing itself as an emerging world power in the late 19th century?

• The influence of European imperialism

• The expansion of the railroad system

• The discovery of gold in Alaska

• The need for new markets and missionary zeal

Which influential figure argued that a powerful navy was essential for national prosperity?

• Alfred T. Mahan

• Josiah Strong

• Theodore Roosevelt

• William Jennings Bryan

What event directly led to the United States declaring war on Spain in 1898?

• The annexation of Hawaii

• The explosion of the USS Maine

• The signing of the Platt Amendment

• The Boxer Rebellion

What was the outcome of the Spanish-American War for the United States?

• It established a protectorate over Cuba

• It gained territories like Puerto Rico and Guam

• It lost control of the Philippines

• It withdrew from international affairs

What was a significant challenge faced by the United States in its new territories after the Spanish-American War?

• Overpopulation

• Inability to establish trade routes

• Resistance from local populations

• Lack of natural resources

How did American policies in the Philippines affect the local population?

• They resulted in immediate independence

• They favored local elites and created poverty

• They established a democratic government

• They led to economic prosperity for all

Which policy did the United States implement to ensure equal trade access in China?

• The Teller Amendment

• The Platt Amendment

• The Open Door Policy

• The Monroe Doctrine

What was the main argument of the Anti-Imperialist League against American imperialism?

• It was too costly

• It was incompatible with democracy

• It would lead to overpopulation

• It would weaken the military

What was a global impact of America's racial attitudes during the age of Imperialism?

• They promoted racial equality in the United States

• They inspired multi-racial democracies worldwide

• They led to the abolition of segregation

• They influenced discriminatory laws in other countries

What was a key concern for both Democratic and Republican leaders regarding new territories after the Spanish-American War?

• The threat of European intervention

• The potential incorporation of alien races

• The cost of maintaining the territories

• The lack of natural resources