American History Homework Ten Answers - Student 21

Rachel N.

1\. How could you have prepared better for the midterm exam, and which part of American history do you think you could improve most for next time?

I feel I utilized the time I took to study well; I devoted my time to understanding concepts, trends, timeline and significant details, rather than obscure details or specific dates. However I did not set aside enough time for studying, and thus I was not fully prepared.

Next time I should put a greater emphasis on learning the important documents and writings of US history as three of the seven questions I got wrong were about documents.

Good analysis, but note that the "document" or quotation questions do not seek correct answers based on memory, but based on good historical analysis based on what you did know. Obviously you did very well on the exam.

2\. Which is your favorite question on the midterm exam that you missed, and what do you like about the question or subject matter?

I appreciated question twenty-six. It required combining critical thinking with the facts we had learned about US history. I enjoyed this challenge, and hope to do better with any similar questions on the final.

Good.

3\. Comment on any aspect of the Scopes Trial or the issues leading up to it, and/or can you compare it to any other influential trial in American history?

As a member of a Mock Trial team, I found it very interesting that the attorney, Bryan, allowed himself to be cross-examined as a witness by his opposing council, Darrow. I looked this cross-examination up online, and found the use of witticisms by both Bryan and Darrow to be very interesting (not to mention amusing). Humor can be a very powerful tool in conveying a point, covering up a blunder or squelching an opponent’s originally well-made point. The following excerpt is an example of both Darrow and Bryan utilizing humor to smooth over the other’s somewhat damaging remark:

DARROW: Can you answer my question?

BRYAN: When you let me finish the statement.

DARROW: It is a simple question, but finish it.

BRYAN: You cannot measure the length of my answer by the length of your question.

DARROW: No, except that the answer will be longer.

That is witty! Superb work in researching this further. (Note that a common mistake is to spell "counsel", which means attorney, as "council", which is a type of official committee or governing entity).

4\. Do you think the United States should have entered World War I, and why?

“Speak softly and carry a big stick.” –Teddy Roosevelt

This quote perfectly explains the best policy regarding war and foreign affairs. Woodrow Wilson ran for president by promising to “speak softly” and keep America out of World War I, and this is exactly what he attempted to do. However, numerous violent acts towards American ships and the threat of an attack from Mexico pushed the peace-loving Woodrow to declare war. A “big stick” is not very threatening if everyone knows that the carrier is too afraid to use it. The acts of violence were certainly reason enough for us to join the war.

Good.

5\. Your view of Teddy Roosevelt, please.

I admire Teddy Roosevelt for his willingness to do what he believed to be right, regardless of what side his party took on an issue. This is an admirable and rare trait in a politician. I also appreciate that he saw the value in our natural resources.

Excellent.

6\. Pick one of the Constitutional Amendments 16 through 19, and express your understanding and view of it.

The 18th Amendment established Prohibition, which essentially banned alcohol. This was in response to a movement that had been growing for decades. The Prohibition movement was inspired by Christian women (the involvement of women was probably the main reason it took so long for women to receive the right to vote, as men did not want to lose alcohol).I believe that this amendment was unconstitutional as it inhibited the freedom of religion (many religions, such as Judaism, have religious traditions that involve alcohol). It was also impractical as it increased illegal activity tremendously. This amendment was reversed by the 21st Amendment.

Superb, may use as a model.

7\. Explain the cartoon.

The man on the left represents Russia, and the man on the right represents Japan. The man in the middle is Teddy Roosevelt. This cartoon portrays the Treaty of Portsmouth (1905) that ended the Russo-Japanese War. President Roosevelt was a peacemaker, and also very involved in foreign affairs. He negotiated the peace terms of this war between Japan and Russia. The angel wings on Roosevelt presumably reflect upon his “angelic” peacemaking abilities.

Excellent!

Perfect answers! 70/70. Congratulations!--Aschlafly 10:21, 24 November 2008 (EST)