8.3 - Expansion and Imperialism

From EngageNY

Beginning in the second half of the 19th century, economic, political, and cultural factors contributed to a push for westward expansion and more aggressive United States foreign policy.

8.3a Continued westward expansion contributed to increased conflicts with Native Americans.
  • Students will examine the effects of the transcontinental railroad on the movement toward westward expansion.
  • Students will examine examples of Native American resistance to the western encroachment, including the Sioux Wars and the flight and surrender of Chief Joseph and the Nez Perce.
  • Students will examine United States and New York State policies toward Native Americans, such as the displacement of Native Americans from traditional lands, creation of reservations, efforts to assimilate Native Americans through the creation of boarding schools, the Dawes Act, and the Indian Reorganization Act and the Native Americans’ various responses to these policies.
8.3b The Spanish-American War contributed to the rise of the United States as an imperial power.
  • Students will examine examples of yellow journalism that contributed to United States entry into the Spanish-American War, including the portrayal of the sinking of the USS Maine.
  • Students will explain how the events and outcomes of the Spanish-American War contributed to the shift to imperialism in United States foreign policy.
8.3c Interest in Pacific trade contributed to an increase in United States foreign interactions.  Students will assess the events surrounding the annexation of Hawaii.
  • Students will examine the purpose and effects of the Open Door Policy.
8.3d The Roosevelt Corollary expanded the Monroe Doctrine and increased United States involvement in the affairs of Latin America. This led to resentment of the United States among many in Latin America.
  • Students will evaluate the United States actions taken under the Roosevelt Corollary and their effects on relationships between the United States and Latin American nations, including the building of the Panama Canal.

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