Unit 4: Imperialism and WWI

Students will gain an understanding of the shift in American foreign policy from isolationism to expansionism. Key knowledge areas include:Motivations for Imperialism: The economic, political, and social reasons for U.S. expansion, including the concept of "Manifest Destiny" extending beyond North American borders.The Spanish-American War: The causes, major events (such as the sinking of the USS Maine and "Yellow Journalism"), and the territorial acquisitions that resulted, like Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines.U.S. Involvement in World War I: The transition from neutrality to active participation, focusing on factors like unrestricted submarine warfare and the Zimmerman Telegram.The Homefront: How the war impacted American society, including the mobilization of the economy, the role of women and minorities, and the restriction of civil liberties through the Espionage and Sedition Acts.Post-War Diplomacy: The failure of the Treaty of Versailles and the League of Nations in the U.S. Senate, leading back to a period of isolationism.

Students will engage in historical inquiry and analysis through various activities:Analyze Primary Sources: Examine political cartoons, speeches (such as Wilson’s "Fourteen Points"), and propaganda posters to identify bias and intended audience.Compare and Contrast: Evaluate different perspectives on imperialism, specifically the arguments between expansionists and the Anti-Imperialist League.Mapping Exercises: Identify the global territories acquired by the U.S. during this era and the strategic importance of locations like the Panama Canal.Debate/Discussion: Participate in structured discussions regarding the ethical implications of U.S. interventions in foreign nations.

Learning is measured through a combination of formative and summative assessments:DBQ (Document-Based Question) Essay: Students write a formal argument using a provided set of primary source documents to explain the impact of U.S. imperialism.Unit Test: A comprehensive exam covering key terms, historical figures, and chronological events of the era.Propaganda Project: Students create their own propaganda piece (poster or recruitment ad) based on World War I themes, demonstrating an understanding of persuasive techniques and historical context.Socratic Seminar: Assessment of student participation in a high-level discussion regarding whether the United States was "justified" in its entry into World War I.