mod6_assessment
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School
Laurel Springs School *
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Course
PART A
Subject
History
Date
Nov 24, 2024
Type
docx
Pages
1
Uploaded by BrigadierSeahorse6227
Option 1:
In this module, you've learned about how the United States used its imperialist
policies to gain territory and grow into a world power. Now it's your turn to demonstrate your
understanding of the module content by writing an essay.
Why did the United States turn to empire in the late 1800s? Write a persuasive essay answering
this question. Your essay should include people, events, and turning points that set into motion
the imperialist expansion of the United States. Be sure to cite evidence to support your position
and organize your essay into an introduction, body, and conclusion.
To understand why the United States turned to empire in the late 1800s, it is essential to
understand the social, economic, and ideological forces that drove this expansionist
policy. In the late 19th century, the United States was experiencing rapid
industrialization and growing global competition. As a result, politicians, businessmen,
and scholars began to argue that the United States needed to expand its markets,
resources, and influence overseas to secure its economic and geopolitical interests.
One of the main turning points that set into motion the imperialist expansion of the
United States was the acquisition of Alaska in 1867. This event served as a precedent for
the future expansion of the United States and demonstrated that continental expansion
was not enough to sustain American prosperity and security.
Another significant event was the Spanish-American War of 1898, which resulted in the
United States acquiring territories in Cuba, Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines.
Americans were galvanized by stories of Spanish atrocities in Cuba and saw the conflict
as an opportunity to spread American values and interests to the rest of the world.
Additionally, advocates of empire, such as Alfred Thayer Mahan, argued that a strong
navy and overseas bases were necessary for the United States to become a global
power. Mahan's book, The Influence of Sea Power upon History, became a bestseller and
inspired a new generation of naval enthusiasts who believed that sea power was the key
to American expansion and security.
In conclusion, the United States turned to empire in the late 1800s due to a combination
of economic, geopolitical, and ideological factors. Rapid industrialization, increasing
global competition, and a belief in American exceptionalism all contributed to the
expansionist policies of this era. Despite the costs and controversies associated with this
policy, the United States emerged as a dominant global power, influencing international
affairs, and shaping the course of world history.
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