American History Homework Nine Answers - Student Three

Jenna N.

1. In your opinion, the 2008 election that concluded on Tuesday is most similar to which election in history, and why?

This past election was extremely similar to when Bill Clinton won against George Bush in 1992. Bill Clinton and Barack Obama are very similar on practically every political level as well as having similar characters. Both were charismatic speakers, had very little international experience, continually talked about “change”, were extremely pro-abortion, had politically influential wives, and had never been in a war before. George Bush and John McCain were also very similar in their political views. Both men had lots of international experience, were very pro-life, and had fought in wars; McCain was a POW for seven years in the Vietnam war, and Bush had been on a plane that was shot down in WWII. On top of the similarities in the candidates themselves both elections hit during a weak economy and the press was incredibly biased towards the left.

Superb analysis. Could include as a model if there is room.

2. Imperialism: a good or bad thing?

Imperialism can be good if the right people are being backed up at the right times, but in general it tends to be bad. By looking at past examples of imperialism this becomes clear. One example of this in history was when Russia invaded Afghanistan and the United States wanted to step in, but on an indirect level. So we decided to give weapons and military training to a group of radical Muslims known as the Taliban. Then twenty years later the Taliban would put this military training to use- causing 9/11. If the United States had not used this imperialism, maybe the twin towers would still be standing today.

Fascinating answer!

3. Your thoughts on the progressive movement, please.

In the 1800s the progressive movement was very effective. However, today the progressive movement will not be influential in American politics. As President Reagan strongly emphasized, we need less government. This is what will help lower taxes and pick our economy back up.

Excellent. Will use as a model.

4. Please explain the cartoon in the Minnesota Tribune, having the caption at top, "WHAT WILL HE DO!" and the caption at the bottom, "The eyes of the world are upon him." Include your description of the point of view of the cartoonist.

This cartoon was very influential in helping McKinley make up his mind to keep the Philippines instead of giving it over to Spain. The cartoonist is putting pressure on McKinley to decide if he is going to shelter the Filipinos from the cruelty of the Spanish by emphasizing that the whole world is watching and waiting. This political cartoon, as well as many others, was what ended up helping McKinley to choose to keep the Philippines.

Completely correct! Very well done.

Perfect answers! Score: 40/40. Congratulations.--Aschlafly 18:02, 15 November 2008 (EST)