U.S. Territories and Imperialism Flashcard

Front

What does the term "territory" mean in relation to the United States?

Back

Land owned by the U.S. but not a state

Front

Which of these is a current U.S. territory? Hawaii, Alaska, Puerto Rico, Cuba

Back

Puerto Rico

Front

Why did the United States want to acquire territories in the 19th century?

Back

To have more land for farming, to gain natural resources, and to increase military power.

Front

What was guano, and why was it important to the U.S. in the 1800s?

Back

Bird droppings, used as fertilizer

Front

How did the U.S. often justify taking control of territories?

Back

By saying they were helping to "civilize" the people there

Front

What famous American writer spoke out against U.S. imperialism?

Back

Mark Twain

Front

What is the citizenship status of people born in American Samoa?

Back

They are U.S. nationals but not citizens.

Front

After World War II, how did the U.S. change its approach to global power?

Back

It focused more on having military bases around the world.

Front

How might U.S. military bases affect the countries where they are located?

Back

They can have both positive and negative effects

Front

Why is it important to study the history of U.S. territories?

Back

It helps us understand current U.S. foreign policy