American Imperialism became the next step in US Foreign Policy in the late 19th and early 20th Century. This policy was promoted by numerous factors including economic, political, military, and social factors. In class on Monday you outlined two essays dealing with imperialism.

Your assignment today is to examine this cartoon "Declined, with thanks" and explain why Uncle Sam would have to "politely" decline the Anti-Imperialists anecdote. Who were the Anti- Imperialists and why were they against US expansionism? Split the class into 2 groups- Imperialist and Anti-Imperialists and use this cartoon and your work from the other day and your reading notes and textbook to debate the following:

" Resolved: The United States was justified in their imperialistic policies during the late 19th/early 20th century."

Eventually, with the advent of WW One in Europe in 1914, the United States would divert from their traditional foreign policy of isolationism and neutrality and turn to interventionism. After the debate, trace the steps that the US took from the early 20th century, how they remained neutral, and then eventually joined into the conflict in Europe in 1917.

Health Care Reform- A Bi-Partisan Effort

Health Care Reform is a classic example of checks and balances and the struggles between the Congress and The Executive Branch. This heated debate has taken some recent turns and President Obama, in conjunction with other Democrats, has had to make some significant concessions in order to move forward.

Your task is to research the most recent chain of events and compromises proposed on both sides of this debate. As individuals, list and briefly explain some of these changes. Why has the President moved more "to the center" with some of his proposals and what are the implications of this move.

Try to search video clips on cnbc, cbs, abcnews, or any of the other major news agencies to help you become informed. You will be graded on the content of your blog and use of resources and websites.

Political Party Identification

In class we have researched and taken numerous political spectrum surveys. As you being your young adult life, you are starting to identify yourself intellectually, financially, and politically. These surveys, while entertaining and a good topic of conversation, are not a totally accurate snapshot of who you are politically.
Your task is to list and explain 4-5 factors that may help to shape your own political views. What institutional factors exist that influence you personally and your contemporaries throughout the United States? What have you learned about your own views on specific issues and topics through these in class discussions and surveys? Be sure to express your own views and reflect about where you may be heading with your own political voice.