American Imperialism and Cultural Superiority

Unit 4 explores the concept of imperialism and its role in the U.S. becoming a world power. It covers key events like the Spanish-American War and Panama Canal, and discusses the expansion of U.S. territories. The video compares colonialism and imperialism, and debates the hypocrisy of U.S. imperialism given its colonial past. It also outlines reasons for supporting imperialism, including industrialization, military strength, and cultural superiority.

Which historical periods does Unit 4 overlay?

• The Gilded Age and Progressive Era

• The Industrial Revolution and World War II

• The Renaissance and Enlightenment

• The Colonial Era and Civil War

What is one factor that contributed to the U.S. becoming a world power?

• Isolationist policies

• Neutrality in conflicts

• Stronger military

• Decreased trade

What is the definition of imperialism?

• A focus on domestic affairs

• A strategy of economic isolation

• A nation extending its power over another

• A policy of non-intervention

How does imperialism relate to historical empires?

• Empires were primarily defensive

• Empires expanded their territories

• Empires focused on cultural exchange

• Empires avoided expansion

What question arises when comparing imperialism to colonialism?

• Is imperialism a form of democracy?

• Is imperialism just another word for colonialism?

• Does colonialism promote equality?

• Is colonialism a modern concept?

Why might the U.S. be considered hypocritical for adopting imperialism?

• It always supported imperialism

• It was a leading colonial power

• It fought for independence from colonial rule

• It never had colonies

What was one reason many people supported imperialism during the Gilded Age?

• To decrease industrialization

• To gain new materials and markets

• To reduce military spending

• To promote global peace

How did imperialists view the spread of American culture?

• As a responsibility

• As a threat

• As unnecessary

• As a minor concern

What controversial belief was tied to the spread of American culture?

• Cultural equality

• Cultural superiority

• Cultural isolation

• Cultural inferiority

What racial aspect was associated with the belief in American cultural superiority?

• It was opposed by all Americans

• It was a non-issue

• It was universally accepted

• It was primarily held by white Americans