theme #1: Demonstrate the evolution of the concepts of personal freedom, individual responsibility, and respect for human dignity.
USII.15: Analyze how German aggression in Europe and Japanese aggression in Asia contributed to the start of WWII and summarize the major battles and events of the war.
textbook chapters: 24(WWII) + 25(U.S. in WWII)
USII.21: Analyze how the failure of communist economic policies as well as U.S.- sponsored resistance to Soviet military and diplomatic initiatives contributing to ending the Cold War.
textbook chapter: 33(Conservative Tide)
USII.29: Analyze the presidency of Ronald Regan.
textbook chapter: 33(Conservative Tide)
USII.31: Analyze th important domestic policies and events of the Clinton presidency.
textbook chapter: 34(U.S. in Today's World)
updated 1/8/08
My progress so far: I have analyzed how the actions of Germany, Japan and the Soviet Union in World War Two, demonstrated a reverse evolution of personal freedom and human dignity.
I still need to research: the Cold War's effects on freedom and dignity, and compare how differently Presidents Reagan and Clinton evolved this concept as well. I should also continue researching WWII in sources beyond the textbook.
Thursday, December 20, 2007
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
Current Events Summary 2.2 (China)
Throughout the year, the state power in China has consistently declined. China started the month of December by having their first ever "high-level economic dialogue" with Japan. Chinese Vice Premier Zeng Peiyan and Japanese Foreign Minister Masahiko Komura co-chaired the meeting by discussing issues such as macro-economic policies, energy-saving and environmental protection, trade and investment,and economic cooperation. Not long after the visit from Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates, China denied permission for an American aircraft carrier battle group to visit Hong Kong. The New York Times claims it was because of the Bush administration’s proposal to sell upgrades to Patriot anti-missile batteries to Taiwan. Foreign Ministry spokesman, Liu Jianchao, said that President Bush’s meeting with the Dalai Lama in Washington in October had damaged ties between the two countries. Not to mention that China is still concerned with past conflict with the U.S. such as when port visits in Hong Kong were suspended in 1999 when the United States bombed the Chinese embassy in Belgrade and again after the accidental 2001 mid-air collision.
As a result to the "One China" foreign policy, the Dalai Lama, leader of Tibet, wants freedom for his country and to escape the grasp of the Chinese government. A Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman commented on their opposition of the issue. "Dalai is a political exile cloaked under religion but engaged in splittist and peace-sabotaging attempts. Japanese opposition leader Ichiro Ozawa met with Chinese President Hu Jintao to discuss trade and diplomatic relations. Mr. Ozawa told reporters that he travels to Beijing annually as part of grassroots exchange program. Japan's efforts were acknowledged by China's President Hu Jintao in a meeting with Foreign Minister Masahiko Komuraon. Jintao commented to Ozawa, "You have worked hard to develop China-Japan relations. We applaud this... We can say your visit has been successful in pushing for more progress in trade and commerce and in the overall relations between our nations."
China also recently met with the Vietnamese to discuss plans to create a four-lane highway from Hanoi to Kunming to promote trade between the two countries. Unfortunately, the construction of this road will require the demolition of about 1,900 homes and force the resettlement of some 25,000 people. Bai Chunli, one of China's top chemists, became the first Chinese scientist honored by the Royal Society of Chemistry of the United Kingdom for his innovative research on chemistry. An RSC chief executive officer granted the certificates of the honorary fellow of the RSC to Bai in Beijing. Bai has earned most of the major national science awards and was named an RSC fellow in 2006. As a result to the "One China" foreign policy, the Dalai Lama, leader of Tibet, wants freedom for his country and to escape the grasp of the Chinese government. A Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman commented on their opposition of the issue. "Dalai is a political exile cloaked under religion but engaged in splittist and peace-sabotaging attempts. Japanese opposition leader Ichiro Ozawa met with Chinese President Hu Jintao to discuss trade and diplomatic relations. Mr. Ozawa told reporters that he travels to Beijing annually as part of grassroots exchange program. Japan's efforts were acknowledged by China's President Hu Jintao in a meeting with Foreign Minister Masahiko Komuraon. Jintao commented to Ozawa, "You have worked hard to develop China-Japan relations. We applaud this... We can say your visit has been successful in pushing for more progress in trade and commerce and in the overall relations between our nations."
Sunday, December 9, 2007
Critical Thinking 23-5 #3 & 4
Some critics have charged that the New Deal was anti business and anti-free enterprise. Explain why you agree or disagree with this charge.
I would agree with these charges that accuse the New Deal of being Anti-business. In fact, I find the new deal designed to aid the people more so than the businesses. An example of this is the expanded power of the federal government. An important part of the new deal was that the federal government assumed responsibilities for the social welfare of the citizens. Another example is the New Deals effect on the economy of the country. The New Deal let the Federal Government create programs such as the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation and the Securities and Exchange Commission. These regulated Banking and Investment activities. The final example is how the federal government gave direct relief to Americas people, something Hoover refused to do. Roosevelt's New Deal provided programs the created and gave jobs to hundreds of unemployed people. The New Deal didn't end the Great Depression, but helped reduce the suffering of thousands of people.
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How successful do you think Franklin Roosevelt was as a president?
I Think FDR was extremely successful before he was even elected president. I is apparent that he won the election of 1933 in a landslide and was such a good president the he was elected two more terms in the white house. Unlike Hoover before him, who didn't want to give direct relief to the people, FDR did the exact opposite, which was what the people suffering from the depression needed at the time. Although Hoover tried extremely hard to help stop the depression, FDR was able to look past keeping "moral fiber" and used this New Deal to the point where congress couldn't keep up with him.
I would agree with these charges that accuse the New Deal of being Anti-business. In fact, I find the new deal designed to aid the people more so than the businesses. An example of this is the expanded power of the federal government. An important part of the new deal was that the federal government assumed responsibilities for the social welfare of the citizens. Another example is the New Deals effect on the economy of the country. The New Deal let the Federal Government create programs such as the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation and the Securities and Exchange Commission. These regulated Banking and Investment activities. The final example is how the federal government gave direct relief to Americas people, something Hoover refused to do. Roosevelt's New Deal provided programs the created and gave jobs to hundreds of unemployed people. The New Deal didn't end the Great Depression, but helped reduce the suffering of thousands of people.
________________________________________________________
How successful do you think Franklin Roosevelt was as a president?
I Think FDR was extremely successful before he was even elected president. I is apparent that he won the election of 1933 in a landslide and was such a good president the he was elected two more terms in the white house. Unlike Hoover before him, who didn't want to give direct relief to the people, FDR did the exact opposite, which was what the people suffering from the depression needed at the time. Although Hoover tried extremely hard to help stop the depression, FDR was able to look past keeping "moral fiber" and used this New Deal to the point where congress couldn't keep up with him.
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
Critical Thinking 23-2 #3
Why might the Social Security Act be considered the most important achievement of the New Deal?
The Social Security Act was the most important program because it provided substantial benefits to millions of Americans. The act had three of helping these Americans. The first was to provide old-age insurance for retirees who were 65 of older and for their spouses as well. This insurance was used as a retirement plan. Half the funds were paid by workers and the other half from employers.
The second major part of the SSA was the Unemployment Compensation System. This was funded by a federal tax on employers. administered at state level, the initial payments ranged from $15 to $18 per week. The final part of the SSA was to aid families with dependent children and the disabled. This was made available to the states and paid for by federal funds.
The Social Security Act was the most important program because it provided substantial benefits to millions of Americans. The act had three of helping these Americans. The first was to provide old-age insurance for retirees who were 65 of older and for their spouses as well. This insurance was used as a retirement plan. Half the funds were paid by workers and the other half from employers.
The second major part of the SSA was the Unemployment Compensation System. This was funded by a federal tax on employers. administered at state level, the initial payments ranged from $15 to $18 per week. The final part of the SSA was to aid families with dependent children and the disabled. This was made available to the states and paid for by federal funds.
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
Critical Thinking 23-1 #3
Of the New Deal programs discussed in this section, which do you consider the most important?
President Roosevelt's "New Deal" created many organizations and programs to support relief for the Great Depression. The most important program, however, has to be the National Industrial Recovery Act, or (NIRA). This act was important because it caused the creation of other programs such as the Public Works Administration (PWA), the Civil Works Administration (CWA), and the National Recovery Administration (NRA). The NIRA itself provided money so the states could afford to created new job opportunities for citizens. Specifically, these jobs were in the construction business, creating new schools and other community buildings.
The other programs spawned from the NIRA were just as important. The Public Works Administration was created originally as a part of the NIRA in creation of other jobs. When these programs failed trying, Roosevelt created the Civil Works administration. This provided work for people, 4 million at the start, during the winter of '33 - '34. It may have seamed like a fill in so Roosevelt had time to create another program, but the CWA was able to build 40 thousand schools, payed the salaries of over 50 thousand teachers and built more than 50 thousand miles of roads. The NIRA was big on industrial growth, so to promote it, they created the National recovery Administration. The Goal of the NRA was to promote recovery by interrupting the thread of wage cuts, falling prices, and layoffs.
President Roosevelt's "New Deal" created many organizations and programs to support relief for the Great Depression. The most important program, however, has to be the National Industrial Recovery Act, or (NIRA). This act was important because it caused the creation of other programs such as the Public Works Administration (PWA), the Civil Works Administration (CWA), and the National Recovery Administration (NRA). The NIRA itself provided money so the states could afford to created new job opportunities for citizens. Specifically, these jobs were in the construction business, creating new schools and other community buildings.
The other programs spawned from the NIRA were just as important. The Public Works Administration was created originally as a part of the NIRA in creation of other jobs. When these programs failed trying, Roosevelt created the Civil Works administration. This provided work for people, 4 million at the start, during the winter of '33 - '34. It may have seamed like a fill in so Roosevelt had time to create another program, but the CWA was able to build 40 thousand schools, payed the salaries of over 50 thousand teachers and built more than 50 thousand miles of roads. The NIRA was big on industrial growth, so to promote it, they created the National recovery Administration. The Goal of the NRA was to promote recovery by interrupting the thread of wage cuts, falling prices, and layoffs.
Thursday, November 29, 2007
Critical Thinking 22-3 #3
How did Hoover's belief in "rugged individualism" shape his policies during the Great Depression?
President Hoover was a big supporter of "rugged individualism," which was basically the idea that people should use their own effort to earn something. With this belief in mind, Hoover opposed any form of federal welfare or direct relief to the needy. He thought that simply giving money would decrease their "moral fiber" and get them into the habit of not trying to pick themselves back up when they know that someone will just help them do it anyway.
Hoovers way of helping the poor was by encouraging the more fortunate, wealthy people, and charities to help pitch in to aid these needy people. He said that the federal government should care for relief measures, but not with a federal bureaucracy. Hoover said a bureaucracy would "be too expensive and would stifle individual liberties."
His policies consulted key leaders in business, banking, and labor and encouraged them to work together to solve the problems of, and improve thenation's "economic woes." As an example, he urged business employers to not cut wages or lay off workers. He Also asked the labor leaders to refrain themselves from asking for better pay or going on strike. Although Hoover tried many things to help the depression, none of them made a great amount of difference.
President Hoover was a big supporter of "rugged individualism," which was basically the idea that people should use their own effort to earn something. With this belief in mind, Hoover opposed any form of federal welfare or direct relief to the needy. He thought that simply giving money would decrease their "moral fiber" and get them into the habit of not trying to pick themselves back up when they know that someone will just help them do it anyway.
Hoovers way of helping the poor was by encouraging the more fortunate, wealthy people, and charities to help pitch in to aid these needy people. He said that the federal government should care for relief measures, but not with a federal bureaucracy. Hoover said a bureaucracy would "be too expensive and would stifle individual liberties."
His policies consulted key leaders in business, banking, and labor and encouraged them to work together to solve the problems of, and improve thenation's "economic woes." As an example, he urged business employers to not cut wages or lay off workers. He Also asked the labor leaders to refrain themselves from asking for better pay or going on strike. Although Hoover tried many things to help the depression, none of them made a great amount of difference.
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
Critical Thinking 22-2 #3
How was what happened to men during the Great Depression different from what happened to Women and Children?
The depression had a far more different effect on men than the women and children. It was harder for men to adjust to unemployment because they were used to working and supporting their families. Normally, women and children would stay home and do household world and entertain themselves. This was something they were still doing throughout the depression, but couldn't afford a decent home and luxuries such as heat and electricity.
Men during the depression would also live out on the streets by themselves in the cities and look for jobs daily. Their mentality of it was that the family "had one less mouth to feed." Some of the older children, teenagers mostly, had the same idea in mind. Some of the men living on the streets, however, simply couldn't live without a job and abandoned their families. There were as many as 300 thousand homeless men during the depression "hitch hiking and sleeping under bridges." These homeless, work less men came to be known as "hoboes."
The depression had a far more different effect on men than the women and children. It was harder for men to adjust to unemployment because they were used to working and supporting their families. Normally, women and children would stay home and do household world and entertain themselves. This was something they were still doing throughout the depression, but couldn't afford a decent home and luxuries such as heat and electricity.
Men during the depression would also live out on the streets by themselves in the cities and look for jobs daily. Their mentality of it was that the family "had one less mouth to feed." Some of the older children, teenagers mostly, had the same idea in mind. Some of the men living on the streets, however, simply couldn't live without a job and abandoned their families. There were as many as 300 thousand homeless men during the depression "hitch hiking and sleeping under bridges." These homeless, work less men came to be known as "hoboes."
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
22-1 Critical Thinking #4
Judging from the events of the late 20's and early 30's, how important do you think public confidence is to the health of the economy?
The confidence of the public plays a major role in the economy. The public had two very different levels of confidence throughout this era. They had far too much confidence in the 20's, but as the depression came about in the 30's, they didn't have enough. During the "roaring twenties," people were buying all their luxurious goods on a new system called credit, which basically let a person "buy now and pay later." The problem with this was that the public had so much confidence that it didn't even occour to them that they couldnt afford the resulting bill. The public also had far too much confidence in the stock market.
Everyone was so confident they could make a profit by selling their stocks, that nobody was buying, thus, causing the stock market crash. Once the great depression hit, people not only lost every cent, but every bit of confidence they had. People lost the spirit to pick themselves back up from the beginning. The low amount of jobs available didn't help the cause either.
The confidence of the public plays a major role in the economy. The public had two very different levels of confidence throughout this era. They had far too much confidence in the 20's, but as the depression came about in the 30's, they didn't have enough. During the "roaring twenties," people were buying all their luxurious goods on a new system called credit, which basically let a person "buy now and pay later." The problem with this was that the public had so much confidence that it didn't even occour to them that they couldnt afford the resulting bill. The public also had far too much confidence in the stock market.
Everyone was so confident they could make a profit by selling their stocks, that nobody was buying, thus, causing the stock market crash. Once the great depression hit, people not only lost every cent, but every bit of confidence they had. People lost the spirit to pick themselves back up from the beginning. The low amount of jobs available didn't help the cause either.
Monday, November 26, 2007
Current Events Summary 2.1 (China)
There have been some some interesting foreign relations in China during the month of November. On November 5th, America's Defense Secretary, Robert M. Gates, investigated China’s aggressive modernization of its armed forces and its even more aggressive expansion of the economy and its growing global role. Mr. Gates stated “China’s increasing political and economic stature calls for this country to take on a greater share of responsibility for the health and success of the international system.” On the 8th of November, Chinese Vice Premier Wu Yi and her Russian counterpart Alexander Zhukov meet at the second China-Russia Business Summit to take advantage of the China-Russia chamber of commerce of machinery and electronic products. They also agreed to deepen cooperation in border regions, further encourage the enthusiasm of local governments and organize time between revitalizing China's former industrial bases in the northeast and developing Russia's Far East region.
Chinese top legislator and chairman of the Standing Committee of China's National People's Congress, Wu Bangguo left Moscow also during the month of November. During his visit to Russia Wu met with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Prime Minister Mikhail Fradkov. the two sides exchanged views and reached consensus on bilateral relations, exchanges of visits and international issues of common concern.Both sides expressed satisfaction over the cooperation between the parliaments in recent years and expressed the desire to improve the mechanism of cooperation between the parliaments. In the business of trade, Kazakhstan agreed to give China a share of 2,000 tons of Uranium a year in exchange for its share in a uranium-processing business. Kazatomprom signed agreements in Beijing with the China Guangdong Nuclear Power Group and the China National Nuclear Corporation, who happen to be China’s largest producers of atomic energy.
China and India will hold their first joint military exercise next month. They have reiterated they were ready to take their strategic cooperative partnership to a "new level". Indian Defense Ministry spokesman, Sitanshu Kar said about 100 troops each from both the countries will take part in the military drill. A Chinese naval vessel has set off on a landmark visit to Japan. It will be the first visit to Japan by a naval vessel of communist China. The visit was agreed at a meeting in August between defense ministers of the two nations. The ministers also agreed to set up a military hot line at their talks, the first in the Japanese capital for almost 10 years.
Chinese top legislator and chairman of the Standing Committee of China's National People's Congress, Wu Bangguo left Moscow also during the month of November. During his visit to Russia Wu met with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Prime Minister Mikhail Fradkov. the two sides exchanged views and reached consensus on bilateral relations, exchanges of visits and international issues of common concern.Both sides expressed satisfaction over the cooperation between the parliaments in recent years and expressed the desire to improve the mechanism of cooperation between the parliaments. In the business of trade, Kazakhstan agreed to give China a share of 2,000 tons of Uranium a year in exchange for its share in a uranium-processing business. Kazatomprom signed agreements in Beijing with the China Guangdong Nuclear Power Group and the China National Nuclear Corporation, who happen to be China’s largest producers of atomic energy.
China and India will hold their first joint military exercise next month. They have reiterated they were ready to take their strategic cooperative partnership to a "new level". Indian Defense Ministry spokesman, Sitanshu Kar said about 100 troops each from both the countries will take part in the military drill. A Chinese naval vessel has set off on a landmark visit to Japan. It will be the first visit to Japan by a naval vessel of communist China. The visit was agreed at a meeting in August between defense ministers of the two nations. The ministers also agreed to set up a military hot line at their talks, the first in the Japanese capital for almost 10 years.
Thursday, November 15, 2007
21-4 Critical Thinking #5
What did the Harlem Renaissance contribute to both black and general American history?
The Harlem Renaissance was a literary and artistic movement celebrating African-Americans. Many of these authors, actors and musicians were some of the most famous in their industry throughout general American History. A Jamaican immigrant named Claude McKay, who was a novelist and a poet, was a major figure whose militant Verses urged African Americans to resist prejudice and discrimination. One of the most famous writers of the movement was Langston Hughes. Many of his poems described the difficult lives of working-class African Americans. Paul Robeson, who performed in Shakespeare's Othello, became a major dramatic actor. As Jazz became popular in New Orleans, it came with a young trumpet player named Louis Armstrong, who joined Oliver's group, which eventually became known as the Creole Jazz Band. His talent rocketed him to stardom in the jazz world.
The Harlem Renaissance was a literary and artistic movement celebrating African-Americans. Many of these authors, actors and musicians were some of the most famous in their industry throughout general American History. A Jamaican immigrant named Claude McKay, who was a novelist and a poet, was a major figure whose militant Verses urged African Americans to resist prejudice and discrimination. One of the most famous writers of the movement was Langston Hughes. Many of his poems described the difficult lives of working-class African Americans. Paul Robeson, who performed in Shakespeare's Othello, became a major dramatic actor. As Jazz became popular in New Orleans, it came with a young trumpet player named Louis Armstrong, who joined Oliver's group, which eventually became known as the Creole Jazz Band. His talent rocketed him to stardom in the jazz world.
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
21-1 Critical Thinking #5
Do you think the passage of the Volstead Act and the ruling in the Scopes trial represented genuine triumphs for traditional values?
Due to changes in city life, the little effect of prohibition and the events of the Scope trials, it would seam that the Volstead act had little influence on the people over "traditional values." In the early 1920's, city's became a common living area, the three largest being New York, Chicago and Philadelphia. Foe small town migrants, they had to adapt to a world of competition and change. Common activities in the city included drinking, gambling and casual dating.
Drinking was such a common thing in the twenties that the idea of prohibition didn't even stand a chance. Although is caused the consumption of alcohol to declined, it still caused disrespect for the law and the growth of organized crime. Prohibition was what brought mobsters to the cities. The Scope trial was a fight over evolution and the role of science and religion in public schools and in American society. Steering away from traditional values, science won the trial.
Due to changes in city life, the little effect of prohibition and the events of the Scope trials, it would seam that the Volstead act had little influence on the people over "traditional values." In the early 1920's, city's became a common living area, the three largest being New York, Chicago and Philadelphia. Foe small town migrants, they had to adapt to a world of competition and change. Common activities in the city included drinking, gambling and casual dating.
Drinking was such a common thing in the twenties that the idea of prohibition didn't even stand a chance. Although is caused the consumption of alcohol to declined, it still caused disrespect for the law and the growth of organized crime. Prohibition was what brought mobsters to the cities. The Scope trial was a fight over evolution and the role of science and religion in public schools and in American society. Steering away from traditional values, science won the trial.
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
20-1 Critical Thinking #3
Do you think Americans were justified in their fear of radicals and foreigners in the decade following WWI?
Americans had two problems to fear: the goals of the leaders of the Russian Revolution, and the challenges facing the United States. Both of these fears revolved around communism. These fears are commonly known today as "the Red Scare." The scare in the States started when the revolutionaries in Russia overthrew the Czar. After the Czar's death, Vladimir I. Lenin and his followers called the "Bolsheviks" established a new Communist State. In response to the events in Russia, a Communist party formed in America as well, with seventy-thousand members. The fear started to spread when the government started getting bombs sent by the Industrial Workers of the World, some of which were members of the communist party.
A challenge within the states itself, other than the formation of the Communist party, was the Palmer Raids. This gathered agents to hunt down any people suspected to be a communist, socialist and anarchists. This was difficult for the Americans because it gave these agents the ability to break people's civil rights. As a result of of the Red Scare and the anti-immigration feelings, many prejudice groups and bigots used it as an opportunity for creating groups to harass groups of foreigners and immigrants. The most frightening of these was the Ku Klux Klan.
Americans had two problems to fear: the goals of the leaders of the Russian Revolution, and the challenges facing the United States. Both of these fears revolved around communism. These fears are commonly known today as "the Red Scare." The scare in the States started when the revolutionaries in Russia overthrew the Czar. After the Czar's death, Vladimir I. Lenin and his followers called the "Bolsheviks" established a new Communist State. In response to the events in Russia, a Communist party formed in America as well, with seventy-thousand members. The fear started to spread when the government started getting bombs sent by the Industrial Workers of the World, some of which were members of the communist party.
A challenge within the states itself, other than the formation of the Communist party, was the Palmer Raids. This gathered agents to hunt down any people suspected to be a communist, socialist and anarchists. This was difficult for the Americans because it gave these agents the ability to break people's civil rights. As a result of of the Red Scare and the anti-immigration feelings, many prejudice groups and bigots used it as an opportunity for creating groups to harass groups of foreigners and immigrants. The most frightening of these was the Ku Klux Klan.
Saturday, November 3, 2007
19-4 Critical Thinking #3&5
Why didn't the treaty of Versailles lay the foundations for a lasting
peace?
The treaty had weaknesses which eventually led to WWII. First of all the treaty humiliated Germany. This was due to it containing a war-guilt clause, which forced Germany to admit sole responsibility for starting WWI, although it was truly Austria-Hungary that started this war to control Serbia. Another factor was the Newfound USSR, formerly Russia, that was preparing to take back the territory they lost to Germany in WWI. And finally, the treaty ignored the claims of colonized people for self determination. Specifically the Vietnamese, who wanted the same political rights as the Western Nations.
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Predict Germany's reaction to the treaty of Versailles. Give reasons for your predictions.
The German's obviously react in the creation of yet another war, but there are reasons behind it. One of which is their response to the War-Guilt clause of the Treaty. Germany did not feel responsible for starting the war, but simply played a major igniting role. Also because of this clause, Germany had been striped of its colonial possessions in the pacific, which might have helped them pay the reparations bill. finally, in Germany's week state, the Russians, now the USSR, decide to take back what territory they lost to the Germans. So, now, Germany is also left with an even smaller country than they had after the war had ended.
peace?
The treaty had weaknesses which eventually led to WWII. First of all the treaty humiliated Germany. This was due to it containing a war-guilt clause, which forced Germany to admit sole responsibility for starting WWI, although it was truly Austria-Hungary that started this war to control Serbia. Another factor was the Newfound USSR, formerly Russia, that was preparing to take back the territory they lost to Germany in WWI. And finally, the treaty ignored the claims of colonized people for self determination. Specifically the Vietnamese, who wanted the same political rights as the Western Nations.
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Predict Germany's reaction to the treaty of Versailles. Give reasons for your predictions.
The German's obviously react in the creation of yet another war, but there are reasons behind it. One of which is their response to the War-Guilt clause of the Treaty. Germany did not feel responsible for starting the war, but simply played a major igniting role. Also because of this clause, Germany had been striped of its colonial possessions in the pacific, which might have helped them pay the reparations bill. finally, in Germany's week state, the Russians, now the USSR, decide to take back what territory they lost to the Germans. So, now, Germany is also left with an even smaller country than they had after the war had ended.
19-3 Critical Thinking #3&5
How did the war affect government power?
The government's power increased enormously during war time. The factors of this were how private businesses were affected, the amount of power given to the president, and the Espionage and sedition acts. The war was a difficult time for small business owners. The government was coming into the industries and made them transfer from producing consumer goods, to producing war supplies. This job was far too complex and important for small business owners, therefore, the larger businesses started to collaborate with the government instead.
As far as presidential power over the economy, Woodrow Wilson was given the majority of the power, which included the ability to fix prices and regulate certain war related industries. The government's power also increased with the passing of the Espionage and Sedition Acts. This made it so a person could be fined up to 10 thousand dollars and sentenced to 20 years in jail for interfering with the war effort.So it could definitely be said that the government gained more power than usual during WWI.
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Do you think that the war had a positive or a negative effect on American society?
The war definitely had both positive and negative effects on our society, but it had many more negative affects. The Propaganda campaign was a definite negative. While the Committee on Public Information was doing well for itself, after selling millions of their biased pamphlets and booklets, it started getting the public to campaign patriotism, which enraged the civil liberties of various ethnic groups and all of those who opposed the war.
However, a positive was the job opportunities given to African Americans, who were recruited as extras in the war, and women, who took over the jobs their husbands would be doing if they were not fighting in the war. However, the other negative was the ridiculous amount of power the government had over industries. With all the businesses producing war supplies, the common consumer would not be able to buy the necessities they normally get from those vendors.
The government's power increased enormously during war time. The factors of this were how private businesses were affected, the amount of power given to the president, and the Espionage and sedition acts. The war was a difficult time for small business owners. The government was coming into the industries and made them transfer from producing consumer goods, to producing war supplies. This job was far too complex and important for small business owners, therefore, the larger businesses started to collaborate with the government instead.
As far as presidential power over the economy, Woodrow Wilson was given the majority of the power, which included the ability to fix prices and regulate certain war related industries. The government's power also increased with the passing of the Espionage and Sedition Acts. This made it so a person could be fined up to 10 thousand dollars and sentenced to 20 years in jail for interfering with the war effort.So it could definitely be said that the government gained more power than usual during WWI.
_________________________________________________
Do you think that the war had a positive or a negative effect on American society?
The war definitely had both positive and negative effects on our society, but it had many more negative affects. The Propaganda campaign was a definite negative. While the Committee on Public Information was doing well for itself, after selling millions of their biased pamphlets and booklets, it started getting the public to campaign patriotism, which enraged the civil liberties of various ethnic groups and all of those who opposed the war.
However, a positive was the job opportunities given to African Americans, who were recruited as extras in the war, and women, who took over the jobs their husbands would be doing if they were not fighting in the war. However, the other negative was the ridiculous amount of power the government had over industries. With all the businesses producing war supplies, the common consumer would not be able to buy the necessities they normally get from those vendors.
Thursday, November 1, 2007
19-2 Critical Thinking #3
In what ways did WWI represent a frightening new kind of warfare?
During WWI, America's time in the war changed view of warfare even to today. America alone had a huge number of casualties. We lost 48 thousand men in battle and 62 thousand of disease. The wounded added even more (about 200 thousand) to the casualties number. However, America wasn't the only country affected by the monstrous number of casualties. The total death count for all countries added together throughout the whole war came to about 22 million. Most countries were affected by the casualty factor even more than America. One of them was Britain, who, during the first day of battle, took 60 thousand casualties a the battle of Somme on July 1st 1916. This battle was the introduction of trench warfare and a new wave of military technology.
The new weapons introduced were more frightening the the patriots of the American Revolution or Civil War couldn't even imagine. Machine guns were introduced with increased firepower of 600 rounds a minute. Airplanes now had guns mounted on the tail, which brought around "Dogfights," and gas filled airships, or Zeppelins, were capable of bombarding the enemy with bombs. Chemical warfare had also evolved from blankets infected with small pox. The were now using poison gas, which caused sickness, suffocation, burning upon it's victims. Gas masks became a necessity on the battlefield. Tanks were also brought to the front line, with the ability to "mow down" anything in it's path.
Battle fatigue, more commonly known as "Shell Shock" was a common problem with the men that came home from the war. It was described as a complete emotional collapse from which many soldiers never recovered. During the war, the Men were surrounded by filth, lice, rats and polluted water that caused dysentery. They inhaled poison gas and smelled the stench of decaying bodies. They suffered lack of sleep. Constant bombardments and other horrifying experiences, all these factors led to battle fatigue.
During WWI, America's time in the war changed view of warfare even to today. America alone had a huge number of casualties. We lost 48 thousand men in battle and 62 thousand of disease. The wounded added even more (about 200 thousand) to the casualties number. However, America wasn't the only country affected by the monstrous number of casualties. The total death count for all countries added together throughout the whole war came to about 22 million. Most countries were affected by the casualty factor even more than America. One of them was Britain, who, during the first day of battle, took 60 thousand casualties a the battle of Somme on July 1st 1916. This battle was the introduction of trench warfare and a new wave of military technology.
The new weapons introduced were more frightening the the patriots of the American Revolution or Civil War couldn't even imagine. Machine guns were introduced with increased firepower of 600 rounds a minute. Airplanes now had guns mounted on the tail, which brought around "Dogfights," and gas filled airships, or Zeppelins, were capable of bombarding the enemy with bombs. Chemical warfare had also evolved from blankets infected with small pox. The were now using poison gas, which caused sickness, suffocation, burning upon it's victims. Gas masks became a necessity on the battlefield. Tanks were also brought to the front line, with the ability to "mow down" anything in it's path.
Battle fatigue, more commonly known as "Shell Shock" was a common problem with the men that came home from the war. It was described as a complete emotional collapse from which many soldiers never recovered. During the war, the Men were surrounded by filth, lice, rats and polluted water that caused dysentery. They inhaled poison gas and smelled the stench of decaying bodies. They suffered lack of sleep. Constant bombardments and other horrifying experiences, all these factors led to battle fatigue.
19-1 Critical Thinking #3&5
Describe some ways in which WWI threatened lives of civilians on both sides of the Atlantic.
WWI threatened life on both sides of the Atlantic in two main ways: the threat of death and the threat to peoples "way of life." For those on the west side of the Atlantic, the treats to their lifestyle were difficult in the subject of imported goods. This was especally true for those who were used to German goods. And with so many men being drafted into the war, a threat of death, women's lifestyles were changed by having to take the jobs men were not present to do. Also as a threat to death were the merchants being escorted in the U-boat attacks while trying to bring their goods across the Atlantic.
On the East side of the Atlantic, Belgium was being invaded, most European leaders were facing the possibility of assassination, and countless villages in France were being destroyed by the war being primarily fought in that country. All of which were threats of death. All countries in Europe were required to change their lifestyle by rationing things needed for the war such as ammunition and food. Also, if Germany and her allies were to have won the war there would have been a serious impact on all the countries they would have conquered.
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Why do you think Germany escalated its U-Boat attacks in 1917?
Germany escalated their U-Boat attacks because they were already building up their military. The had built a large Navy and decided to use it. Not to mention their build up was geared towards trying to conquer and empire and were even attempting to match the Naval power of Great Britain. They were attempting to match Britain because they had already stopped Germany from getting weapons and military supplies. Britain was also trying to slow food imports to the German armies in an attempt to keep neutral nations from trading with Germany. However, the Germans did have a reason for using Submarine warfare. This was the fact their needed to counter blockade Britain and show that their Navy was superior when it truly was not.
WWI threatened life on both sides of the Atlantic in two main ways: the threat of death and the threat to peoples "way of life." For those on the west side of the Atlantic, the treats to their lifestyle were difficult in the subject of imported goods. This was especally true for those who were used to German goods. And with so many men being drafted into the war, a threat of death, women's lifestyles were changed by having to take the jobs men were not present to do. Also as a threat to death were the merchants being escorted in the U-boat attacks while trying to bring their goods across the Atlantic.
On the East side of the Atlantic, Belgium was being invaded, most European leaders were facing the possibility of assassination, and countless villages in France were being destroyed by the war being primarily fought in that country. All of which were threats of death. All countries in Europe were required to change their lifestyle by rationing things needed for the war such as ammunition and food. Also, if Germany and her allies were to have won the war there would have been a serious impact on all the countries they would have conquered.
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Why do you think Germany escalated its U-Boat attacks in 1917?
Germany escalated their U-Boat attacks because they were already building up their military. The had built a large Navy and decided to use it. Not to mention their build up was geared towards trying to conquer and empire and were even attempting to match the Naval power of Great Britain. They were attempting to match Britain because they had already stopped Germany from getting weapons and military supplies. Britain was also trying to slow food imports to the German armies in an attempt to keep neutral nations from trading with Germany. However, the Germans did have a reason for using Submarine warfare. This was the fact their needed to counter blockade Britain and show that their Navy was superior when it truly was not.
Sunday, October 21, 2007
18-4 Critical Thinking #s 3 & 4
What do you think were the similarities and differences between Roosevelt's Big Stick policy and Wilson's missionary diplomacy?
President Roosevelt's "Big Stick" policy was meant as a reminder for the Monroe Doctrine, which forced European countries to stay out of affairs of the western Hemisphere, including Latin American countries. in his message to congress not long afterward, he added to the Monroe Doctrine. The piece he added was called the Roosevelt Corollary, which said that the United States would now use force to protect its economic interests in Latin America.(568)
When Woodrow Wilson came into office, he had a different interpretation of the Monroe Doctrine, which urged him to created the "missionary diplomacy," which gave the United States right to deny recognition to any Latin American countries that seamed oppressive, undemocratic or hostile to our country. This is pretty much the opposite of what Roosevelt would have wanted. (569)
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In your opinion, should the United States have become involved in the affairs of Columbia, Nicaragua and Mexico during the early 1900s?
Because of the Roosevelt Corollary, President Taft, following Roosevelt's term, was forced to aid a bankrupt Nicaragua. In return, they gave US bankers control over their state owned railroad and its national bank. Also, thanks to the Dollar Diplomacy, we were able to reinforce the ability to keep European power out of the Caribbean and the rest of Latin America. In, my opinion, its great that we were able to help foreign countries, but President Roosevelt was using it as a excuse for controlling their economy, which is the completely wrong reason for it.
President Roosevelt's "Big Stick" policy was meant as a reminder for the Monroe Doctrine, which forced European countries to stay out of affairs of the western Hemisphere, including Latin American countries. in his message to congress not long afterward, he added to the Monroe Doctrine. The piece he added was called the Roosevelt Corollary, which said that the United States would now use force to protect its economic interests in Latin America.(568)
When Woodrow Wilson came into office, he had a different interpretation of the Monroe Doctrine, which urged him to created the "missionary diplomacy," which gave the United States right to deny recognition to any Latin American countries that seamed oppressive, undemocratic or hostile to our country. This is pretty much the opposite of what Roosevelt would have wanted. (569)
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In your opinion, should the United States have become involved in the affairs of Columbia, Nicaragua and Mexico during the early 1900s?
Because of the Roosevelt Corollary, President Taft, following Roosevelt's term, was forced to aid a bankrupt Nicaragua. In return, they gave US bankers control over their state owned railroad and its national bank. Also, thanks to the Dollar Diplomacy, we were able to reinforce the ability to keep European power out of the Caribbean and the rest of Latin America. In, my opinion, its great that we were able to help foreign countries, but President Roosevelt was using it as a excuse for controlling their economy, which is the completely wrong reason for it.
Current Event Summary #3
In the South African region of the world, Zimbabwe wasn't the only country making foreign policy news in the first weeks of October. In Botswana, the World Travel and Tourism Council told the countries officials that their tourism rates would increase about seven percent. it also warned them about capital investment rising at a dangerously fast rate than "forecast since major airport upgrades planned ahead the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa."In the same week German Chancellor of Berlin,Angela Merkel discusses the issues of Zimbabwe's economy with other officials from the region such as South Africa's Thabo Mbeki. During the Summit, they will discuss things such as Robert Mugabe's abuse of human rights and his grip on the countries economy, "which has the world's highest inflation rate of about 6,000% and unemployment levels of about 80%," in the aftermath is it's collapse.
About a week later, four foreigners made their way into South Africa, apparently smuggling cigarettes into the country. later captured by the Limpopo police, the criminals were suspected to be from Zimbabwe, Mozambique and Malawi. The police also found 48 boxes of counterfeit cigarettes and there were possibly more inside a truck, that unfortunately fled the area. On Friday the 12th, Presidents of Botswana, and South Africa officially opened the tourist facility located between South Africa and Namibia within the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park. This park is Africa's first whose "main feature is the uninterrupted contiguity of flora and fauna between Botswana and South Africa, which was opened seven years ago."
A south African consortium offered to invest $29 million in a 106-year-old Kenya-Uganda Railway. The consortium is sure that the investment from the East African Community, Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda and Burundi, "and the creation of a customs union which opened up markets for 90 million people." In even more South African and Zimbabwean news, A 40 year old, South African Businessman named Douglas McCallum was arrested by Zimbabwean police trying to smuggle three rifles and more than 100 rounds of ammunition out of the country. After having discovered more weaponry in his luggage, McCallum is due to go on trial on Thursday the 25th of October.
About a week later, four foreigners made their way into South Africa, apparently smuggling cigarettes into the country. later captured by the Limpopo police, the criminals were suspected to be from Zimbabwe, Mozambique and Malawi. The police also found 48 boxes of counterfeit cigarettes and there were possibly more inside a truck, that unfortunately fled the area. On Friday the 12th, Presidents of Botswana, and South Africa officially opened the tourist facility located between South Africa and Namibia within the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park. This park is Africa's first whose "main feature is the uninterrupted contiguity of flora and fauna between Botswana and South Africa, which was opened seven years ago."
A south African consortium offered to invest $29 million in a 106-year-old Kenya-Uganda Railway. The consortium is sure that the investment from the East African Community, Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda and Burundi, "and the creation of a customs union which opened up markets for 90 million people." In even more South African and Zimbabwean news, A 40 year old, South African Businessman named Douglas McCallum was arrested by Zimbabwean police trying to smuggle three rifles and more than 100 rounds of ammunition out of the country. After having discovered more weaponry in his luggage, McCallum is due to go on trial on Thursday the 25th of October.
Thursday, October 18, 2007
18-3 Critical Thinking #s 3 & 4
How did American rule of Puerto Rico harm Puerto Ricans? How did it help them? Do you think the benefits outweighed the harmful effects? Why or Why not?
After the Spanish-American War, Puerto Rico became a temporarily owned by the United States. This worried some Puerto Ricans who feared that they would not have the freedom that Spain had given them. Some took the route of being a vocal advocate and tried to get Puerto Rico the self rule it deserved. However, our rule over the country helped some of the Puerto Ricans who wanted statehood. Although there were two groups of Puerto Ricans, there one group was affected the country's statehood. The US definitely caused more harm than benefits to the country. This was due to the fact that our military was in control of the area. Not to mention that, whether the Puerto Ricans wanted independence or statehood, the US wasn't going to help with either, but simply use the island as a strategic spot for their troops to patrol the coast. (558-559)
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How was U.S. policy toward China different from U.S. policy toward the Philippines? To what can you attribute the difference?
In the Philippines, there were some issues with revolt. Therefore, America, as well as Spain played to role of enforcing the law against the rebelling colonies fighting for freedom. Once they finished "suppressing the rebellion" they took control of the Filipino islands as they did with Puerto Rico. However, the Philippines actually earned independence 47 years later.(561)
The situation with China was quite different however. Instead of us helping stop a rebellion, we caused one. America saw the occupation of the Philippines as a "door" to the rest of Asia to sell their products to: namely China. Hoping China doesn't loose interest in the American products in their market, the US tried to address letters to the leaders of the nation, but at the same time not create a Monopoly. However, with European Countries controlling China's main cities, the Chinese started something called "the Boxer Rebellion" on the controlling countries such as Britain, France and Germany. After the rebellion, John Hay created another "open door note" which announced that America would "safeguard for the world the principle of equal and impartial trade with all parts of the Chinese Empire."(562-563)
After the Spanish-American War, Puerto Rico became a temporarily owned by the United States. This worried some Puerto Ricans who feared that they would not have the freedom that Spain had given them. Some took the route of being a vocal advocate and tried to get Puerto Rico the self rule it deserved. However, our rule over the country helped some of the Puerto Ricans who wanted statehood. Although there were two groups of Puerto Ricans, there one group was affected the country's statehood. The US definitely caused more harm than benefits to the country. This was due to the fact that our military was in control of the area. Not to mention that, whether the Puerto Ricans wanted independence or statehood, the US wasn't going to help with either, but simply use the island as a strategic spot for their troops to patrol the coast. (558-559)
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How was U.S. policy toward China different from U.S. policy toward the Philippines? To what can you attribute the difference?
In the Philippines, there were some issues with revolt. Therefore, America, as well as Spain played to role of enforcing the law against the rebelling colonies fighting for freedom. Once they finished "suppressing the rebellion" they took control of the Filipino islands as they did with Puerto Rico. However, the Philippines actually earned independence 47 years later.(561)
The situation with China was quite different however. Instead of us helping stop a rebellion, we caused one. America saw the occupation of the Philippines as a "door" to the rest of Asia to sell their products to: namely China. Hoping China doesn't loose interest in the American products in their market, the US tried to address letters to the leaders of the nation, but at the same time not create a Monopoly. However, with European Countries controlling China's main cities, the Chinese started something called "the Boxer Rebellion" on the controlling countries such as Britain, France and Germany. After the rebellion, John Hay created another "open door note" which announced that America would "safeguard for the world the principle of equal and impartial trade with all parts of the Chinese Empire."(562-563)
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
18-2 Critical Thinking
What do you think were th unstated editorial policies of yellow journalism?
Apparently, it wasn't stated that journalists could exaggerate their stories simply to increase sales. As described in James Creelman's works of journalism, the American citizens in Cuba were apparently "slaughtered" and is enough of an argument to get people thinking about war. The way Creelman put it was far to the extreme of what actually happened, but since it was in a newspaper, the people of America believed it. (552)
Some Journalists in opposing newspapers even had wars against each other, such as Hearst and Weyler. When Hearst sent an artist to Cuba, the artist informed him that the place doesn't look like there was a war at all, let alone between the US and Spain. Then, in 1898, when the USS Maine exploded, which was most likely an accident, the papers immediately started pointing fingers a Spain, which was the true spark of the Spanish-American War. (553-554)
Apparently, it wasn't stated that journalists could exaggerate their stories simply to increase sales. As described in James Creelman's works of journalism, the American citizens in Cuba were apparently "slaughtered" and is enough of an argument to get people thinking about war. The way Creelman put it was far to the extreme of what actually happened, but since it was in a newspaper, the people of America believed it. (552)
Some Journalists in opposing newspapers even had wars against each other, such as Hearst and Weyler. When Hearst sent an artist to Cuba, the artist informed him that the place doesn't look like there was a war at all, let alone between the US and Spain. Then, in 1898, when the USS Maine exploded, which was most likely an accident, the papers immediately started pointing fingers a Spain, which was the true spark of the Spanish-American War. (553-554)
Monday, October 15, 2007
18-1 Critical Thinking #s 3 & 5
How do you think manifest destiny set the stage for American imperialism at the end of the century?
Manifest destiny was pretty much always about westward expansion and its no different here. American continued its expansion by purchasing Alaska and taking over Hawaii, all in the same year. The purchase of Alaska was a large asset to business in the US. This huge state, which was bought by Russia, only cost 2 cents an acre. Not only that, bot there were some spots in the northern part of the state with an immense amount of gold. There were also supplies of oil and lumber coming from the area as well. Therefore, the purchase of Alaska was a good example of manifest destiny. (551)
However, the way America obtain Hawaii is a better example of imperialism. Americans were anxious to "pluck the now ripe Hawaiian pear." Therefore, the government simply sent troops to the islands and claim ownership of them. The Queen Liliuokalani sent a letter asking the states to be reasonable and give her kingdom, or so she called it, back. The American Government simply declined. This is a perfect example of imperialism, where a stronger nation extends their economic, political or, in this case, military control over weaker territories. (548)
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In the following passage, how does Indian Senator Albert J. Beveridge explain the need for the US to acquire new territories?
Senator Beveridge's reason is quite clear once in his statement. "We will establish trading posts throughout the world as distributing points for American products..." Beveridge wants to expand the countries territory to sell products from America. Hes in it for the benefits if Big Business. Once our country owned places such as Alaska and Hawaii, the businessmen had more opportunities to sell than to fellow Americans and Europe. With Hawaii, they could sail from Pearl Harbor to places such as Hong Kong or Japan. And from Alaska, they could sell items in the northern region of Canada, as well as Russia.
Manifest destiny was pretty much always about westward expansion and its no different here. American continued its expansion by purchasing Alaska and taking over Hawaii, all in the same year. The purchase of Alaska was a large asset to business in the US. This huge state, which was bought by Russia, only cost 2 cents an acre. Not only that, bot there were some spots in the northern part of the state with an immense amount of gold. There were also supplies of oil and lumber coming from the area as well. Therefore, the purchase of Alaska was a good example of manifest destiny. (551)
However, the way America obtain Hawaii is a better example of imperialism. Americans were anxious to "pluck the now ripe Hawaiian pear." Therefore, the government simply sent troops to the islands and claim ownership of them. The Queen Liliuokalani sent a letter asking the states to be reasonable and give her kingdom, or so she called it, back. The American Government simply declined. This is a perfect example of imperialism, where a stronger nation extends their economic, political or, in this case, military control over weaker territories. (548)
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In the following passage, how does Indian Senator Albert J. Beveridge explain the need for the US to acquire new territories?
Senator Beveridge's reason is quite clear once in his statement. "We will establish trading posts throughout the world as distributing points for American products..." Beveridge wants to expand the countries territory to sell products from America. Hes in it for the benefits if Big Business. Once our country owned places such as Alaska and Hawaii, the businessmen had more opportunities to sell than to fellow Americans and Europe. With Hawaii, they could sail from Pearl Harbor to places such as Hong Kong or Japan. And from Alaska, they could sell items in the northern region of Canada, as well as Russia.
Monday, October 8, 2007
Critical Thinking 17-5 #4
Why do you think Wilson failed to push for equality for African Americans, despite his progressive reforms?
Like Theodore Roosevelt before him, Woodrow Wilson had similar thoughts for progressive ideas, but thought differently for the Federal Government. Wilson Believed in attacking large concentrations of power to give greater freedom to average citizens. In other words, he wanted the country to be a democracy to give people freedom. He called this attack, "New Freedom."
Wilson grew up in the south during the civil war and reconstruction thereafter. Being the son, grandson and nephew of Presbyterian ministers, he had a harsh and strict childhood. In 1910, he became the Governor of New Jersey and that was the start of his political carer. Its unfortunate he had such an attack planed because his progressive ideals were great and directed towards all racial equality.
Like Theodore Roosevelt before him, Woodrow Wilson had similar thoughts for progressive ideas, but thought differently for the Federal Government. Wilson Believed in attacking large concentrations of power to give greater freedom to average citizens. In other words, he wanted the country to be a democracy to give people freedom. He called this attack, "New Freedom."
Wilson grew up in the south during the civil war and reconstruction thereafter. Being the son, grandson and nephew of Presbyterian ministers, he had a harsh and strict childhood. In 1910, he became the Governor of New Jersey and that was the start of his political carer. Its unfortunate he had such an attack planed because his progressive ideals were great and directed towards all racial equality.
Critical Thinking 17-3 #5
Why did W.E.B. Du Bois oppose Booker T. Washington's view on racial discrimination?
Du Bois and many other African American laves disliked or even hated, Booker T. Washington for his accommodation of segregation of blacks, and for blaming black poverty on the black community. Washington told the African American community this and to accept their discrimination. In response to this, Du Bois renewed his demands for immediate social and economic equality for African Americans.
In 1903, Du Bois displayed his message to Washington in his book, The Souls of Black Folk. In response to this book, African Americans held a civil rights conference in Niagara Falls in 1905. In 1909, African Americans joined forces with prominent white reformers in New York to form the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, or NAACP, which aimed for nothing less than full equality among races.
Du Bois and many other African American laves disliked or even hated, Booker T. Washington for his accommodation of segregation of blacks, and for blaming black poverty on the black community. Washington told the African American community this and to accept their discrimination. In response to this, Du Bois renewed his demands for immediate social and economic equality for African Americans.
In 1903, Du Bois displayed his message to Washington in his book, The Souls of Black Folk. In response to this book, African Americans held a civil rights conference in Niagara Falls in 1905. In 1909, African Americans joined forces with prominent white reformers in New York to form the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, or NAACP, which aimed for nothing less than full equality among races.
Thursday, October 4, 2007
Critical Thinking 17-2 #5
Imagen you are a woman during the progressive era. Explain how you might recruit other women to support the following causes: improving education, housing reform, food and drug laws and the right to vote.
Women in the Progressive era were fighting for many causes.In the case of education, most women in public life started attending women's colleges. With College education, most women in the late 19th century didn't get married and retained their independence. The African American women formed an organization called th National Association of Colored Women and managed things such as nurseries, reading rooms and kindergartens.
Other organizations run by women had a "social housekeeping" which targeted workplace reform, housing reform, educational improvement and food and drug laws. For getting th right to vote, they had a "three part strategy for suffrage". The first stage was trying to convince state legislatures to grant women the right to vote. Second, they perused court cases to test the fourteenth amendment. Third, the women pushed for a national constitutional amendment to grant women the voting rights. This was first attempted in California. It was passed, but was eventually killed not long after.
Women in the Progressive era were fighting for many causes.In the case of education, most women in public life started attending women's colleges. With College education, most women in the late 19th century didn't get married and retained their independence. The African American women formed an organization called th National Association of Colored Women and managed things such as nurseries, reading rooms and kindergartens.
Other organizations run by women had a "social housekeeping" which targeted workplace reform, housing reform, educational improvement and food and drug laws. For getting th right to vote, they had a "three part strategy for suffrage". The first stage was trying to convince state legislatures to grant women the right to vote. Second, they perused court cases to test the fourteenth amendment. Third, the women pushed for a national constitutional amendment to grant women the voting rights. This was first attempted in California. It was passed, but was eventually killed not long after.
Wednesday, October 3, 2007
17-1 Critical Thinking #s 3 & 4
3) In What ways might Illinois, Wisconsin and Oregon all be considered trailblazers in progressive reform?
Wisconsin and Oregon could considered trailblazers in this era due to the roles they played in the reform government and elections. With the help of a man named "Fighting Bob" La Follette becoming part of the senate in 1906, Wisconsin was able to regulate the ways of Big Business. The main Business needing help was the Railroad industry. La Follette increased some taxes on the railroad properties and banned the companies to treat government officials to ride the trains for free. (516)
Oregon was an important part of this period because it was the first state to adopt the secret ballot for elections. This brought upon the three terms: Initiative, Referendum and Recall. Initiative was when citizens could make a bill originated by the people rather than the lawmakers. The Referendum was a vote on the Initiative (the citizen made ballot). The Recall gave voters the ability to force an official in an elected position into a new election before the end of the term.(518)
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4) Do you think the cartoonist had a favorable or unfavorable opinion of this prohibition?
This cartoon is an image of Carry Nation, one of the largest supporters of Prohibition, in a saloon, with a hatchet, and the whole place is hacked to pieces, with the men hiding behind th bar in terror. It seams as though this cartoonist has an unfavorable opinion to this prohibitionist. this is expressed in his cartoon by showing how much destruction is left when "Mrs. Nation" is through with her hacking and slashing. It is also expressed in the men hiding in the background of this doodle that she truly does strike fear into the heart of MEN.
Wisconsin and Oregon could considered trailblazers in this era due to the roles they played in the reform government and elections. With the help of a man named "Fighting Bob" La Follette becoming part of the senate in 1906, Wisconsin was able to regulate the ways of Big Business. The main Business needing help was the Railroad industry. La Follette increased some taxes on the railroad properties and banned the companies to treat government officials to ride the trains for free. (516)
Oregon was an important part of this period because it was the first state to adopt the secret ballot for elections. This brought upon the three terms: Initiative, Referendum and Recall. Initiative was when citizens could make a bill originated by the people rather than the lawmakers. The Referendum was a vote on the Initiative (the citizen made ballot). The Recall gave voters the ability to force an official in an elected position into a new election before the end of the term.(518)
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4) Do you think the cartoonist had a favorable or unfavorable opinion of this prohibition?
This cartoon is an image of Carry Nation, one of the largest supporters of Prohibition, in a saloon, with a hatchet, and the whole place is hacked to pieces, with the men hiding behind th bar in terror. It seams as though this cartoonist has an unfavorable opinion to this prohibitionist. this is expressed in his cartoon by showing how much destruction is left when "Mrs. Nation" is through with her hacking and slashing. It is also expressed in the men hiding in the background of this doodle that she truly does strike fear into the heart of MEN.
Tuesday, October 2, 2007
Current Event Summary 2
In the recent couple of weeks, nearing the end of September, many countries in the southern African region have been dealing with Robert Mugabe, the ruthless leader of Zimbabwe. The British Prime Minister, Gordon Brown, said to fellow EU nations regarding the Europe-Africa Summit meeting that "if Mugabe's there, then Britain is not." An official on the subject said, "I think we all want a successful summit, but we are also very, very concerned about the situation in Zimbabwe."
The editor of the Herald spoke to Brown about the issue and said "Mr Brown has nothing to fear from President Mugabe but has everything to gain by engaging in civilized dialogged that will eventually lead to an agreement over the bilateral dispute between the two countries." Britain, the US, Australia and the EU accuse Mugabe's government of "committing human rights abuses". The US, and our allied countries have taken the sanctions and disagreements against Robert Mugabe and the Zimbabwean Government to a new level.
Not long after these statements, the presidency of South Africa was accused of attempting to remove Robert Mugabe from power in Zimbabwe. A statement made by the Presidency of South Africa stated that the newspaper named "The Zimbabwean" claimed "South African government has been secretly working to remove Mugabe from power." It further claimed that "The SA officials have been lobbying for sustained international pressure to bear on the Mugabe regime." The newspaper ignored this comeback.
The editor of the Herald spoke to Brown about the issue and said "Mr Brown has nothing to fear from President Mugabe but has everything to gain by engaging in civilized dialogged that will eventually lead to an agreement over the bilateral dispute between the two countries." Britain, the US, Australia and the EU accuse Mugabe's government of "committing human rights abuses". The US, and our allied countries have taken the sanctions and disagreements against Robert Mugabe and the Zimbabwean Government to a new level.
Not long after these statements, the presidency of South Africa was accused of attempting to remove Robert Mugabe from power in Zimbabwe. A statement made by the Presidency of South Africa stated that the newspaper named "The Zimbabwean" claimed "South African government has been secretly working to remove Mugabe from power." It further claimed that "The SA officials have been lobbying for sustained international pressure to bear on the Mugabe regime." The newspaper ignored this comeback.
Monday, September 24, 2007
Critical Thinking 15-2 # 4 & 5
What solution (or attempted solution) to an urban problem discussed in this section do you think had the most impact? Why?
The most successful solution to urbanization,which was a result of rapid growth of cities, mainly in the northeast and Midwest, was definitely the Americanization movement. The Americanization movement was designed to assimilate people of wide-ranging cultures into the dominant culture. this movement basically taught the immigrants of the standard American culture and instructed them on typical jobs they would be expected to perform. (469)
It was also an improvement to have the different cultures assigned their own region of a city. For example, in New York, the German and Russian cultures had th largest numbers in Queens, whereas the Irish dominated Manhattan. Unfortunately, this didn't bode well with the immigrants who wanted to keep their own cultures. Despite this, it was the the greatest solution that America had at the time, and it certainly hat a great impact, goo or bad. (469)
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What effects did the migration from rural ares to the cities in the late 19th century have on urban society?
The rapid migration of not only Immigrants, but natives (United State Born citizens), had many effects on todays modern urban society. The main reason so many immigrants were migrating to the cities in the northeast was because it was a far cheaper, more affordable place to live in. Not to mention, the city is also a place where one can have any job imaginable, which gives immigrants wider options for an occupation. Farmers were moving into cities due to the rapid improvements in technology during this period. (470)
In Urban societies, there simply wasn't room for both families of locals and immigrants in those small little towns. Therefore, the immigrants decided to move into the cities since they had more opportunities there anyway. Not only were they unwanted immigrants in rural societies, but African Americans as well. They stated migrating into the cities also. they did so in order to escape from racial violence, economic hardship and political oppression. (471)
The most successful solution to urbanization,which was a result of rapid growth of cities, mainly in the northeast and Midwest, was definitely the Americanization movement. The Americanization movement was designed to assimilate people of wide-ranging cultures into the dominant culture. this movement basically taught the immigrants of the standard American culture and instructed them on typical jobs they would be expected to perform. (469)
It was also an improvement to have the different cultures assigned their own region of a city. For example, in New York, the German and Russian cultures had th largest numbers in Queens, whereas the Irish dominated Manhattan. Unfortunately, this didn't bode well with the immigrants who wanted to keep their own cultures. Despite this, it was the the greatest solution that America had at the time, and it certainly hat a great impact, goo or bad. (469)
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What effects did the migration from rural ares to the cities in the late 19th century have on urban society?
The rapid migration of not only Immigrants, but natives (United State Born citizens), had many effects on todays modern urban society. The main reason so many immigrants were migrating to the cities in the northeast was because it was a far cheaper, more affordable place to live in. Not to mention, the city is also a place where one can have any job imaginable, which gives immigrants wider options for an occupation. Farmers were moving into cities due to the rapid improvements in technology during this period. (470)
In Urban societies, there simply wasn't room for both families of locals and immigrants in those small little towns. Therefore, the immigrants decided to move into the cities since they had more opportunities there anyway. Not only were they unwanted immigrants in rural societies, but African Americans as well. They stated migrating into the cities also. they did so in order to escape from racial violence, economic hardship and political oppression. (471)
Saturday, September 22, 2007
Critical Thinking 15-1 # 3 & 4
3) Which group of immigrants do you think faced the greatest challenges in the united states? Why?
The new wave of immigrants had come from all different areas of the world. Most came to the States from European countries. others came from Mexico and the west Indies. However, an extremely high percentage came from eastern Asia. Namely China. (461)
The Europeans and Mexicans had it more easy than others, as long as they were doing it legally. Unfortunately, there were so many Chinese immigrants coming into America, there was no possible way there could be enough jobs for both them, and the locals. The employers, however, looked at this as an opportunity to cut pay wages. These immigrants were so happy just knowing they had a job, they couldn't care less how much they were paid or how many hours they worked.On the other hand, there were those who've been working in this country all their lives and knew exactly what kind of pay they should be getting.
The locals were upset about the employers hiring the immigrants that they went to the government with the issue. The result of this was the Chinese Exclusion Act in 1882. this act banned entry to all Chinese except students, teachers, merchants, tourists and government officials. therefore, it is quite obvious that the Chinese immigrants had a much worse situation than those from Europe and Mexico. (465)
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4) What were the effects of the massive influx of immigrants to the U.S. in the late 1800s?
in the late 1800s, there was an increasingly large amount of immigrants coming into America and the results didn't make many people too happy. First of all, simply the sheer number of people coming into th country was ridiculous. In Massachusetts, the number of Irish immigrants added up to about 249 thousand people, and thats only the Irish immigrants. there were even more in more states. Not to mention the German numbers were even higher!(461)
However, having Asian immigrants was an entirely new element to the situation. the Asian immigrants were much more accustomed to doing harder, more physically tiring work. and because they didn't have a preference to how they were payed, they were hired more often than others. This led to the locals creating something called, nativism, which was favoritism to those born in America. It was basically a form of racism against Asian immigrants.(464)
the popular "Anti-Asian" subject reached congress and they decided to do what the people would like, and created the Chinese exclusion act, which kept Chinese immigrants from entering the country looking for work. (465)
The new wave of immigrants had come from all different areas of the world. Most came to the States from European countries. others came from Mexico and the west Indies. However, an extremely high percentage came from eastern Asia. Namely China. (461)
The Europeans and Mexicans had it more easy than others, as long as they were doing it legally. Unfortunately, there were so many Chinese immigrants coming into America, there was no possible way there could be enough jobs for both them, and the locals. The employers, however, looked at this as an opportunity to cut pay wages. These immigrants were so happy just knowing they had a job, they couldn't care less how much they were paid or how many hours they worked.On the other hand, there were those who've been working in this country all their lives and knew exactly what kind of pay they should be getting.
The locals were upset about the employers hiring the immigrants that they went to the government with the issue. The result of this was the Chinese Exclusion Act in 1882. this act banned entry to all Chinese except students, teachers, merchants, tourists and government officials. therefore, it is quite obvious that the Chinese immigrants had a much worse situation than those from Europe and Mexico. (465)
__________________________________________________________________
4) What were the effects of the massive influx of immigrants to the U.S. in the late 1800s?
in the late 1800s, there was an increasingly large amount of immigrants coming into America and the results didn't make many people too happy. First of all, simply the sheer number of people coming into th country was ridiculous. In Massachusetts, the number of Irish immigrants added up to about 249 thousand people, and thats only the Irish immigrants. there were even more in more states. Not to mention the German numbers were even higher!(461)
However, having Asian immigrants was an entirely new element to the situation. the Asian immigrants were much more accustomed to doing harder, more physically tiring work. and because they didn't have a preference to how they were payed, they were hired more often than others. This led to the locals creating something called, nativism, which was favoritism to those born in America. It was basically a form of racism against Asian immigrants.(464)
the popular "Anti-Asian" subject reached congress and they decided to do what the people would like, and created the Chinese exclusion act, which kept Chinese immigrants from entering the country looking for work. (465)
Monday, September 17, 2007
Critical Thinking 14-3 #3
Do you think the tycoons of the late 19th century are best described as ruthless robber barons or as effective captains of industry?
Although their methods seemed very cruel, the business tycoons did prove to be useful and effective. Their tactics and strategies were extremely effective. The creation of horizontal
and vertical integration gave businesses the ability to rely upon themselves. Some companies in the same industries even partnered using trusts. Although this could be looked at as bribery.
They also made various contributions to the economy. For example, they made products such as oil and steel easier to access for the public. This was made easier by the construction of Vanderbilt's railroads. The construction of these railroads provided more job opportunities for many common citizens. However, some of these jobs were used for child labor, but this was only used for extreme situations when there weren't enough men to work the coal mines.
Although the tycoons were creating trusts with businesses equal of each other, this wasn't the case with smaller, private owned businesses.These smaller competitors were often put out of business. However, most of the time, they were hired to work for the larger companies. Therefore, these business tycoons were not as ruthless as they were effective and contributing to the expansion of our great nation.
Although their methods seemed very cruel, the business tycoons did prove to be useful and effective. Their tactics and strategies were extremely effective. The creation of horizontal
and vertical integration gave businesses the ability to rely upon themselves. Some companies in the same industries even partnered using trusts. Although this could be looked at as bribery.
They also made various contributions to the economy. For example, they made products such as oil and steel easier to access for the public. This was made easier by the construction of Vanderbilt's railroads. The construction of these railroads provided more job opportunities for many common citizens. However, some of these jobs were used for child labor, but this was only used for extreme situations when there weren't enough men to work the coal mines.
Although the tycoons were creating trusts with businesses equal of each other, this wasn't the case with smaller, private owned businesses.These smaller competitors were often put out of business. However, most of the time, they were hired to work for the larger companies. Therefore, these business tycoons were not as ruthless as they were effective and contributing to the expansion of our great nation.
Sunday, September 16, 2007
Current Events Summary #1
Southern Africa News Wire
In the first weeks of September, Southern African nations took steps to improve trade and quality of life for their citizens. The nations of Angola, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia and Zimbabwe, have joined forces to promote job creation and tourism by proposing the creation of the Kavango-Zambezi Transfrontier Park, a $100 million project. Child migrants from Zimbabwe have been making their way across the border to South Africa in search of "work, food and schooling." Ennie Nelushi coordinator of The Children's Resource Center, takes care of "vulnerable children from both South Africa and Zimbabwe." Country's such as Angola, Botswana, DR Congo, Namibia, South Africa and Zimbabwe, part of the Southern African Development Community, take credit for producing 60 percent of the worlds diamonds. Representatives of these countries met in Angola and decided to form the African Diamond Producers Association to "increase their influence in the Global market for the gem." US company Olivine decreases production value "as part of that country's sanctions regime" against Zimbabwe and it's Dictator, Mugabe. In turn, Mugabe buys out Olivine as the first company acquired by Zimbabwe in response to the sanction regimes.
In Mozambique, President Armando Guebuza had a meeting with Brazil's President, Lula da Sila to discuss cooperation on immigration and job opportunities for both country's citizens. Angola, Namibia and South Africa joined forces to create "The Benguela Current Commission (BCC)" and concluded to share fishing waters in the Atlantic as well as contribute to the environmental problems and share fishing stock. Botswana is in command, for the deadline is by the end of December, of the Southern African Development Community team during the trade negotiations between the Europe Union and ACP countries on Economic Partnership Agreements in Brussels. However,there are only eight counties in the Southern Africa region - Angola, Mozambique, Namibia, Lesotho, Swaziland, Tanzania , South Africa and Botswana itself, most of these countries being "classified as Least Developing Countries." South Africa's Rugby team has a whole line of merchandise as one of the favorite teams in the World Cup. However, The Congress of South African Trade Unions recalled and shunned these items after learning that they were produced as cheap textile imports from china.This is a problem due to the manufacturers recent agreement on having only "local made" products.
In the first weeks of September, Southern African nations took steps to improve trade and quality of life for their citizens. The nations of Angola, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia and Zimbabwe, have joined forces to promote job creation and tourism by proposing the creation of the Kavango-Zambezi Transfrontier Park, a $100 million project. Child migrants from Zimbabwe have been making their way across the border to South Africa in search of "work, food and schooling." Ennie Nelushi coordinator of The Children's Resource Center, takes care of "vulnerable children from both South Africa and Zimbabwe." Country's such as Angola, Botswana, DR Congo, Namibia, South Africa and Zimbabwe, part of the Southern African Development Community, take credit for producing 60 percent of the worlds diamonds. Representatives of these countries met in Angola and decided to form the African Diamond Producers Association to "increase their influence in the Global market for the gem." US company Olivine decreases production value "as part of that country's sanctions regime" against Zimbabwe and it's Dictator, Mugabe. In turn, Mugabe buys out Olivine as the first company acquired by Zimbabwe in response to the sanction regimes.
In Mozambique, President Armando Guebuza had a meeting with Brazil's President, Lula da Sila to discuss cooperation on immigration and job opportunities for both country's citizens. Angola, Namibia and South Africa joined forces to create "The Benguela Current Commission (BCC)" and concluded to share fishing waters in the Atlantic as well as contribute to the environmental problems and share fishing stock. Botswana is in command, for the deadline is by the end of December, of the Southern African Development Community team during the trade negotiations between the Europe Union and ACP countries on Economic Partnership Agreements in Brussels. However,there are only eight counties in the Southern Africa region - Angola, Mozambique, Namibia, Lesotho, Swaziland, Tanzania , South Africa and Botswana itself, most of these countries being "classified as Least Developing Countries." South Africa's Rugby team has a whole line of merchandise as one of the favorite teams in the World Cup. However, The Congress of South African Trade Unions recalled and shunned these items after learning that they were produced as cheap textile imports from china.This is a problem due to the manufacturers recent agreement on having only "local made" products.
Thursday, September 13, 2007
Critical Thinking 14-2 #4
Why was the government so eager to promote the growth of railroads?
The rail roads were a large industry in the 1870's to the 1890's. The government saw this industry as an opportunity to expand westward with ease. This was not only meant for people who wold be migrating west, but for business as well. Not to mention it would also rake in large profits.(pg. 442)
The people who were moving out west were mostly families looking for land for farms, or people, namely women, looking for jobs on a farm. this was only the original reason for expanding west. the new reason was to build new railroads. with new roads for the locomotive, there was a safe and secure way to transfer farm crops and other farm goods from coast to coast. This, however was a problem for the farmers. They simply couldn't afford the shipment of sending their crops to merchants because the railroad prices were too high. (443)
This leads to the true reason the government started the railroad expansion in the first place: money. Whether it was selling the farmers crops or charging to send them by train. This was why they didn't do anything about the companies creating a trust and overpricing their railroads. The trust was looked at as an opportunity to make even more money in the business than they were before. (445)
The rail roads were a large industry in the 1870's to the 1890's. The government saw this industry as an opportunity to expand westward with ease. This was not only meant for people who wold be migrating west, but for business as well. Not to mention it would also rake in large profits.(pg. 442)
The people who were moving out west were mostly families looking for land for farms, or people, namely women, looking for jobs on a farm. this was only the original reason for expanding west. the new reason was to build new railroads. with new roads for the locomotive, there was a safe and secure way to transfer farm crops and other farm goods from coast to coast. This, however was a problem for the farmers. They simply couldn't afford the shipment of sending their crops to merchants because the railroad prices were too high. (443)
This leads to the true reason the government started the railroad expansion in the first place: money. Whether it was selling the farmers crops or charging to send them by train. This was why they didn't do anything about the companies creating a trust and overpricing their railroads. The trust was looked at as an opportunity to make even more money in the business than they were before. (445)
Wednesday, September 12, 2007
Critical Thinking 14-1 #5
Which invention or development described in this section had the greatest impact on society?
There were many things in this period that were invented and we still use as necessities today. These included the production of steel, the invention of the light bulb, the typewriter and the telephone. All of these inventions were amazing steps foreword in technology. However, the most important one has to be the light bulb.
Created by Thomas Edison 1880, the light bub was a revolutionary invention which could supply light to the common man's home whenever needed. Although we now take the light bulb for granted, there once was a time when people had to light their homes with candles and fireplaces. (438)
The main reason the light bulb was so revolutionary was because it opened possibilities on supplying electrical power in a way that would be convenient for the public as Edison and George Westinghouse did. The same way the electricity powers the light bulb, it could also be harnessed to create heating, telephone lines and whatever else could use electricity. Currently, we use this electricity to supply power to our televisions, computers or even simply charge a cell phone. Probably no one would have figured how to harness this power if it were not for Thomas Edison and his revolutionary light bulb.(438-439)
There were many things in this period that were invented and we still use as necessities today. These included the production of steel, the invention of the light bulb, the typewriter and the telephone. All of these inventions were amazing steps foreword in technology. However, the most important one has to be the light bulb.
Created by Thomas Edison 1880, the light bub was a revolutionary invention which could supply light to the common man's home whenever needed. Although we now take the light bulb for granted, there once was a time when people had to light their homes with candles and fireplaces. (438)
The main reason the light bulb was so revolutionary was because it opened possibilities on supplying electrical power in a way that would be convenient for the public as Edison and George Westinghouse did. The same way the electricity powers the light bulb, it could also be harnessed to create heating, telephone lines and whatever else could use electricity. Currently, we use this electricity to supply power to our televisions, computers or even simply charge a cell phone. Probably no one would have figured how to harness this power if it were not for Thomas Edison and his revolutionary light bulb.(438-439)
Friday, September 7, 2007
Critical thinking 13-3
What do you think were the most significant factors in bringing an end to the Populist Party?
The collapse of populism was caused by a variety of issues. The idea was originated around what the majority of people wanted, mainly farmers in debt. Although this seemed like a safe haven for farmers, it was hell for everyone who had to deal with the result of inflation of silver and deflation of gold. (pg 428)
These issues with currency eventually led to the panic of 1893. while the farms and cash crops were living well, thousands of business' and banks went downhill. (pg 427) A large supporter of Populism was William Jennings Bryan. Bryan ran in the election of 1896 against Democrat William McKinley.(pg 429)
Obviously, those who make a living in the industrial mid-west didn't like the idea of populism destroying their lives with inflation and deflation. So, they voted for McKinley instead. Because the mid-west was now so highly populated, McKinley obviously won the election. Due to the results, Bryan's career went downhill from this point forward, and Populism went down with him.
The collapse of populism was caused by a variety of issues. The idea was originated around what the majority of people wanted, mainly farmers in debt. Although this seemed like a safe haven for farmers, it was hell for everyone who had to deal with the result of inflation of silver and deflation of gold. (pg 428)
These issues with currency eventually led to the panic of 1893. while the farms and cash crops were living well, thousands of business' and banks went downhill. (pg 427) A large supporter of Populism was William Jennings Bryan. Bryan ran in the election of 1896 against Democrat William McKinley.(pg 429)
Obviously, those who make a living in the industrial mid-west didn't like the idea of populism destroying their lives with inflation and deflation. So, they voted for McKinley instead. Because the mid-west was now so highly populated, McKinley obviously won the election. Due to the results, Bryan's career went downhill from this point forward, and Populism went down with him.
Thursday, September 6, 2007
Critical Thinking 13-2
How successful were government efforts to promote settlement of the great plains?
The government had great success in promoting the settlement of the great plains. One way they promoted westward expansion was through the creation of railroads. The creation of railroads gave the option of transporting goods, mainly farm crops across the country with ease.
However, the governments main attraction for the settlement in the west was the homestead act. With the homestead act, people would travel westward to claim what ever land they could, and keep it for no charge. This was extremely appealing to the people, especially the farmers in need of more crop space.
Because of the Homestead act, the plains in the western United States became highly populated. People in the east saw this populate westward expansion, more and more citizens decided to move west and claim of purchase their own land.
The government had great success in promoting the settlement of the great plains. One way they promoted westward expansion was through the creation of railroads. The creation of railroads gave the option of transporting goods, mainly farm crops across the country with ease.
However, the governments main attraction for the settlement in the west was the homestead act. With the homestead act, people would travel westward to claim what ever land they could, and keep it for no charge. This was extremely appealing to the people, especially the farmers in need of more crop space.
Because of the Homestead act, the plains in the western United States became highly populated. People in the east saw this populate westward expansion, more and more citizens decided to move west and claim of purchase their own land.
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