Human Heritage: A World History

"The Spanish-American War"

Introduction
As a result of the Spanish-American War and annexations, the United States acquired many new territories and colonies. Imperialists believed that it was the right and duty of the United States to expand its powers. Not all Americans, however, believed that this sort of growth was a positive thing. In this activity, you will take a closer look at the debate between the imperialists and anti-imperialists.

Destination Title: "Imperialists" and "Anti-Imperalists"

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Directions
Start at the Imperialists and Anti-Imperialists Web site.

• Scroll down the Web page, reading and analyzing the information.
• When you have finished reading, apply what you have learned to answer the following questions.

1			What territories did the United States occupy by the end of the Spanish-American War?
2			What reasons did imperialists give for supporting annexation?
3			Why did anti-imperialists oppose colonization of distant lands?
4			Describe the outcome of the Senate's vote on the Treaty of Paris.
5			Write a paragraph in which you evaluate the motives of the two sides—imperialists and anti-imperialists. Whose philosophy seems most justified? Base your judgments on the facts stated on the Web page.