APUSH: Period 7 Review

Period 7 Review 1890 - 1945

• Overview of key historical events:
  • Imperialism
  • Spanish-American War
  • Progressivism
  • World War I
  • The 1920s
  • The Great Depression
  • New War
  • Interwar Period
  • World War II
  • Postwar Diplomacy

7.2 Imperialism: Debates

Essential Question:

• What are the similarities and differences in attitudes about the nation’s proper role in the world?

Context: US Foreign Policy

• Changes in foreign policy from the 1790s onward:
  • Expansion Westward
  • Protection of US interests abroad
  • Limiting Foreign Influence in the Americas
• Post-Civil War developments:
  • Increased interest in overseas trade
  • Establishment of overseas bases and territories in the Caribbean and Pacific
• Post-1890:
  • Rising tensions between Imperialism and Isolationism

7.2 - Expansion after the Civil War

Key Figures:

• William H. Seward
  • Secretary of State under Presidents Lincoln and Johnson.
  • Prevented Great Britain from entering the Civil War on behalf of the Confederacy.
  • Annexed Midway Island and facilitated rights to construct the Nicaragua Canal.
  • Purchased Alaska from Russia for $7.2 million, termed "Seward’s Folly" by critics.

The Purchase of Alaska

• Russia’s motivations:
  • Interest in seal hunting territories
  • Concerns over British threats in Alaska
  • Alaska purchased as a gesture of gratitude due to Russian support during the Civil War.

Hawaiian Islands

• American missionary and entrepreneurial presence since mid-1800s.
• Strategic interest in Pearl Harbor (positioned centrally between China and California).
• 1875: Exclusive trading rights to Hawaiian sugar granted to the US.
• 1893: Overthrow of Queen Liliuokalani aided by US settlers and appeal for annexation (blocked by President Grover Cleveland).

7.2 - The Era of “New Imperialism”

Economic Interests

• Business sectors advocated imperialism for new markets and raw materials.
• Farmers supported imperialism for enhanced agricultural opportunities.
• Republicans typically aligned with business interests and thus supported imperialistic policies.

Political and Military Power

• Resistance emerged toward becoming a 'second-class' power.
• Alfred Thayer Mahan's work, "The Influence of Sea Power Upon History" (1890):
  • Advocated for a strong navy to secure foreign markets.
  • Resulted in naval modernization and acquisition of strategic territories such as Samoa.
  • By 1900, the US navy was ranked as the 3rd largest globally.

Social Fears

• Expansionist policies seen as a relief mechanism for social unrest and economic dissatisfaction post-1893 Panic.
• Concerns over domestic labor conflicts led to support for imperialist strategies.

Darwinism and Religion

• Advocates of imperialism employed Darwinian notions to justify expansionist policies, suggesting a moral imperative.
• Josiah Strong's "Our Country: Its Possible Future and Present Crisis" (1885):
  • Claimed Anglo-Saxons as the fittest, promoting the spread of Christianity as a civilizing mission.
  • This ideology influenced both humanitarian and imperialistic motives for expansion abroad.

Popular Press

• Imperialistic narratives were sensationalized in media, spurring public interest in global engagement.
• Images of colonial exploits portrayed in publications bolstered public support.

Increasing Imperialism Among Powers

• Major powers like Britain, France, Germany, and Japan began exploiting political and economic imperialism in territories across Africa, Asia, and the Pacific.
• The US preferred diplomatic approaches to secure overseas possessions over military interventions.

7.2 - Opposition to Imperialism

Anti-Imperialist Sentiments

• Rooted in principles of self-determination:
  • Belief that all peoples deserve to govern themselves.
• Opposition to racial superiority theories, reaffirming equality across racial and ethnic lines.
• Emphasis on maintaining America's isolationist stance.
• Concerns over financial burdens associated with maintaining military presence and managing colonies.

7.2 - Latin America

Pan-American Diplomacy

• Efforts by Secretary of State James G. Blaine to foster improved relations between the US and Latin America.
• Hosted the Pan-American Conference (1889) leading to collaborative trade, political, and economic initiatives.

Cleveland, Olney, and the Monroe Doctrine

• Asserted US authority in Caribbean by intervening in British-Venezuelan border disputes, using Monroe Doctrine as justification.
• US threatened military intervention, prompting British capitulation and arbitration.
• Strengthened US-latin American relationships by preventing European recolonization efforts.

Conflict over Imperialism

• Monroe Doctrine established a precedent for intervention which sparked longstanding debates between isolationists and imperialists.

7.3 The Spanish-American War and U.S. Foreign Policy to 1917

Essential Question:

• What were the causes and effects of the Spanish-American War?

Context:

• Expansionist desires in Southern US eyeing Cuba for potential agricultural expansion and slavery post-Civil War.
• US investments in Cuban sugar plantations set the tone for intervention.
• Spanish governance issues and the Monroe Doctrine led to increasing American interests in Cuba and the Philippines.

7.3 - Causes of the Spanish-American War

Jingoism

• Wave of intense nationalism inciting demands for US to assert itself as an imperial power spurred calls to action.
• Presidents Cleveland and McKinley exhibited reluctance toward military interventions despite the war's inevitable progression.

Cuban Revolts

• Cuban nationalists rebelled against Spanish rule between 1868-1878 and again in 1895, seeking to involve the US in their struggle.
• Spanish response including General Weyler's brutal tactics against civilians was widely reported in US media.

Media Sensationalism (Yellow Press)

• Newspapers like Joseph Pulitzer's "New York World" and William Randolph Hearst’s "New York Journal" exploited sensationalized journalism to promote a war agenda.
  • Sound probes of Spanish atrocities fueled public support for intervention.

De Lome Letter (1898)

• Private correspondence denigrating President McKinley published in Hearst’s newspaper, stoking public outrage as a national insult.

Sinking of the USS Maine

• US battleship explosion in Havana harbor killed 260 Americans; yellow press blamed Spain, despite later evidence indicating it was an accident.

McKinley’s War Message

• Following USS Maine incident, McKinley demanded Spain halt aggression toward Cuba; public sentiment still pushed for war despite Spain's compliance.
• Congress declared war for several reasons:
  • To halt atrocities
  • Safeguard US interests
  • Protect American commerce
  • Resolve ongoing disturbances in Cuba.

Teller Amendment

• Congress stipulated that the US had no intentions of annexing Cuba, upholding the principle of self-determination post-conflict.

7.3 - Fighting the War and Controversy over Peace

Initial Engagements

• Conflict broke out first in the Philippines; many engagements supported by Filipino rebels against Spanish forces, culminating in the capture of Manila.

Engagement in Cuba

• Situation in Cuba complicated due to struggles with disease and inadequate preparation of US troops.
  • Outcome was largely favorable due to decisive victories led by figures like Teddy Roosevelt and the Rough Riders.

Geopolitical Outcomes

• Victory resulted in the annexation of Hawaii and territorial gains in Puerto Rico and Guam; turbulence in the relationship with the Philippines ensued post-war.
• The Treaty of Paris ignited significant debate regarding US imperialism amidst fears of colonial entanglements.

Philippine Question

• Deep opposition from anti-imperialists; significant conflict arose concerning taking control over territories inhabited by diverse populations.
  • Opposition stemmed from concerns that the actions contradicted American ideals of liberty and democracy.

7.3 - Other Results of the War

Continued Imperialism Discourse

• The war ignited fervent discussions around American imperialism and its implications, running counter to long-held isolationist sentiments.
• Societal divisions resurfaced regarding constitutional principles related to territories.

Insular Cases (1901-1903)

• Legal debates emerged regarding the applicability of the US Constitution in new territories, leading to Supreme Court decisions asserting that rights do not automatically transfer.

7.3 - Cuba and the Platt Amendment (1901)

Cuban Independence and Limitations

• US troops occupied Cuba until American supervision was guaranteed under the Platt Amendment:
  1. Prevented Cuba from signing treaties impairing independence.
  2. Offered US intervention in the interest of maintaining peace.
  3. Permitted US establishment of naval bases, most notably Guantanamo Bay.

7.3 - Election of 1900 & Recognition of US Power

Political Landscape

• McKinley benefited from public acceptance of imperialism, winning reelection amid fears of economic instability and foreign threats.
  • Notable changes in public perception regarding military positioning solidified US global status.

7.3 - Late 19th Century Challenges

Open Door Policy in China

• US sought to maintain trade freedoms amidst rising imperial competition in Asia.
  • Secretary of State John Hay issued diplomatic notes advocating for equal rights in China’s trades.

Boxer Rebellion (1900)

• A violent nationalist uprising against foreign influence led to international military intervention.

Truman’s Policies in Asia

• Roosevelt's foreign policies pivoted to address growing Japanese and Soviet ambitions in the late 30s through stimulating strong military frameworks.

7.3 - Roosevelt’s “Big Stick” Policy

Expansionist Ambitions

• Roosevelt’s administration sought to solidify American presence through active diplomacy and military intervention in the Americas and abroad.

Panama Canal Initiative

• Pushed for the construction of the Panama Canal, leveraging geopolitical strategies against European and LA nations to secure significant maritime routes.
  • Facilitated through a treaty yielding perpetual control over the canal zone.

Roosevelt Corollary to the Monroe Doctrine

• Justified proactive military intervention in Latin America to manage European debt collection efforts—a controversial enlargement of US influence in the Western Hemisphere.

7.3 - Roosevelt and Asia

Post-War Tensions with Japan

• Following the success in Europe, rising tensions manifested in disputes over territorial rights in the Pacific.
  • Notably pivoted into military engagements amid economic and ideological confrontations post-1920s.

7.3 - The Rise of Wilsonian Diplomacy

Foreign Policy Evolution under Wilson

• Sought to redefine foreign relations, primarily favoring democracy and self-determination, and promising to recast US's approach toward imperialism post-WWI.

7.4 The Progressives

Essential Question:

• What were the goals and effects of the Progressive reform movement?

Context:

• The progressive movement arose as a response to societal challenges stemming from industrialization and urbanization.
  • Similar to earlier reform efforts, these initiatives aimed to enhance democracy and curtail the sway of corporate conglomerates.

7.4 - General Beliefs and Composition

Diverse Collective

• Included varying figures such as Protestant leaders, African Americans, and labor unions advocating for systemic reform across socio-economic strata.

Progressive Philosophy

• Viewed as a natural progression from earlier reform movements, embodying ideals of pragmatism, social justice, and a demand for more government involvement in everyday affairs.

7.4 - Muckrakers

Investigative Journalists

• Aimed at exposing entrenched corruption in business and politics through published exposés, growing public concern and demands for reform.

7.4 - Federal Reforms and Innovations

New Practices Implemented

• Popularization of secret ballots, direct primaries, and amendments to introduce direct election of Senators and other beneficial legislation.

7.4 - Municipal and State Reform

Down to Local Governance

• Reform movements focusing on urban corruption through better governance practices, promoting public ownership of utilities, and development of community infrastructures.

Social Welfare Initiatives

• Efforts initiated by settlement house workers to address critical social issues including education, labor laws, and childcare.

7.5 World War I: Military and Diplomacy

Essential Question:

• What are the causes and consequences of US involvement in World War I?

Context:

• Political turmoil following the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand triggered alliances cascading into global conflict, further complicated by economic factors.

7.5 - Neutrality vs. Economic Interests

Initial Stances and Developments

• Wilson's policies of neutrality were challenged by economic ties with the Allied Powers amidst warfare circumstances.

Escalating Tensions

• German U-boats challenged US commercial vessels, inciting public outcry leading to intensified calls for military action.

7.5 - Public Opinion and the War Debate

Influencing Factors

• Press sensationalism, ethnic influences, and propaganda played significant roles in shaping public sentiment against the Central Powers leading up to conflict.

7.5 - Decision for War

Key Events Prompting Engagement in WWI

• Unrestricted submarine warfare reinstated by Germany and the discovery of the Zimmermann Telegram propelled the US toward full militarization.

7.6 The New Deal:

Essential Question:

• How did the Great Depression and the New Deal impact American politics, societies, and economics over time?

Context:

• The Depression drastically unsettled Americans presenting challenges even as many believed solutions were readily achievable through reform.

7.6 - FDR’s Policies and the New Deal Structure

Objectives of the New Deal

• Aimed at systemic economic recovery, social welfare expansion, and banking security, embracing notions of responsibility toward American citizens.

7.6 - Impact on Society and Labor

Changes in Workforce Dynamics

• Shifts of demographics toward employment opportunities altered roles within families, with women, African Americans, and other minority groups notably stepping into the workforce during the ongoing economic crisis.

Growing Diversity in American Society

• The intermingling of different cultural, ethnic, and socioeconomic elements matured as a direct response to wartime labor demands.

7.7 Cultural and Political Controversies

Essential Question:

• What are the causes and effects of international and internal migration patterns over time? How did American pop culture develop over time?

Key Changes in American Landscape

• Migration patterns resulted in a diversified influx of populations amid tensions surrounding cultural ideals and social mores previously held.

7.8 Contemporary Political Landscape

Fundamental Changes in Attitudes toward Governance

• The American populace began seeking increased government intervention and support through refined policies promoting civil rights and welfare.

Rise of Activism

• Active participation on behalf of minority rights intensified, urging greater political engagement across community spectrums.

Education and Control of Public Perception

• Campaigns focused on literacy and education reform expanded significantly within transformed societal frameworks.

7.9 Economic Disparities and Workers’ Rights

Developing Class Consciousness

• Economic realities faced by workers and farmers led to heightened advocacy for labor rights and protections.

Strikes and Labor Unrest

• Increased activity representing a noteworthy pushback against perceived injustices prompted immediate federal and state intervention to maintain order.

7.10 Review of Political Impasse

Challenges of Political Collaboration

• The 1930s ushered in complex political dialogues as parties grappled with recovery tactics while deepening splits within particularly the Democratic Party regarding directions and social policies.

7.11 Resurgence of Global Tensions

Political Isolationism and its Effects

• The American populace slowly transformed perspectives on foreign entanglements amid growing aggression from Axis powers.

7.12 World War II: Military

Strategic Military Engagements

• US military engagements during World War II revolutionized both geopolitical perspectives and military strategies, showing intensified commitment against Axis powers.

7.13 Postwar Diplomatic Landscape

Dynamic Global Interactions

• International negotiations post-World War II were characterized by ideological struggles that shaped subsequent international relationships, primarily focusing on balancing power amid emerging Cold War tensions.

Note: All mathematical expressions, numerical data, official documents, and treaties have been retained verbatim where applicable.