Big Picture

1. Why did expansion and foreign intervention seem the logical next step for Americans?
   • How was this linked to America's historic values?
2. Why did the U.S. intervene in Cuba?
   • Do you support this sort of use of American troops?
   • If yes, for what reasons? 
     • Ideological? Strategic? Humanitarian?
     • Are there geographic limits to where the US should intervene in these sorts of conflicts?
   • If no, why not?
3. Are American interests served by allowing a European nation to control a neighbor this close?
4. Was the Platt Amendment an extension or violation of America's original reasons for entering Cuba? Explain.
5. Was the American annexation of the Philippines an extension or violation of America's reasons for going to war against Spain? Explain.