The video below is a presentation on how Afred T. Mahan influenced American Imperialism in the 1890s.
Alfred T. Mahan Video (7 minutes)
Pro & Anti Imperialism Chart (google doc)
Activity/Application: Use the video and chart above as well as the “comparing historians’ viewpoints” section on page 354 in your book to answer the following…
- After watching the video and analyzing the chart containing main arguments both “for” and “against” imperialism, comment on which argument you think is the strongest for Pro-Imperialism supporters & which is the strongest for Anti-Imperialism supporters. Explain why you feel this way for each.
- Read “Comparing Historians’ Viewpoints on page 354. What argument does Walter LaFeber make for how imperialism could solve some of America’s domestic issues?
- What argument does Robert Beisner make for how imperialism could restore security and renew the “American spirit”?
- Now imagine you lived in America at the turn of the century. Which side of this debate (Pro or Anti-Imperialism) do you think you would most support? Explain why.