American History Homework Nine Answers - Student Two

Christina F.

1. In your opinion, the 2008 election that concluded on Tuesday is most similar to which election in history, and why? The 2008 election was similar to that of 1828, with Andrew Jackson. Both Jackson and Obama were different than the ones before them, and offered a 'change' that the people felt like they needed--almost refreshment.

Excellent, and you might add that both appealed to the "common man."

2. Imperialism: a good or bad thing? Imperialism is a good thing. The larger country helps the smaller get on its feet, and receives benefits in the process.

Good, which you explain explain a bit further.

3. Your thoughts on the progressive movement, please. The progressive movement seems to be a good idea, in theory, but most candidates don't actually plan on accomplishing what they say to do. It's hard to specify what a 'better government' is. Who says what one person does WILL be better?

OK, but it's not merely a matter of "what one person does." It's an approach, a philosophy, a change in laws that influences the direction of the country regardless of who holds office. Presidents are not dictators, and what matters more than "what one person does" is what ideology is taken. You point about the vagueness of "better government" is well taken.

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 published in 1898 and symbolized President Woodrow Wilson, and and the child next to him representing the Philippines. Woodrow Wilson had the option of throwing the child (Philippines) off the cliff to death, or not, and the entire world was watching his decision.

No, Wilson is much later. Your time period is right, but your interpretation is off. (Minus 2).

[edit] Honors (pick 2 out of 3)

H1. Do you agree with how the United States finally ended the fighting in the Philippines during the Spanish-American War? The way the US ended the Spanish American War wasn't necessarily wrong, but there were possibly selfish motives in buying Cuba: namely for sugar, and other such products. But the Cubans weren't hurt by the decision.

Good, but the answer doesn't address the question, which was about the Philippines. (Minus 2).

H2. How do you think the role of newspapers in the recent election compares with the "yellow journalism" of the 1890s? There was very much yellow journalism going on during the 2008 election. Newspapers and polls everywhere built up the hype of having Obama as president: someone different, a change.

Excellent.

Good effort. Score: 56/60.--Aschlafly 10:49, 15 November 2008 (EST)