REVIEW – TEST ONE, SPRING 2005

Who, what, when, where, how, and why is it historically significant?

Eight terms will appear on the test.  You will need to address four of them.  Each will be worth 10 points, for a total of 40 points for the whole section.  A good ID will be more than a few sentences.  You should write at least 5 sentences on each id. Additionally, some IDs will require more info than others.  

A question like this will be on the exam. Make sure to use specific examples from the book The Sacco and Vanzetti Case.  Make sure you fully answer the opinion section of the question you choose on the exam.  The only way to get the opinion section wrong is not to do it.

 Discuss the background of the Sacco and Vanzetii case. Why different groups held different views about this case? Finally, what did you think of the book and why?  (This is your opinion)

Potential Essay Topics: 40 points

The following topics could appear as essay questions.  Three essay questions will appear on the exam.  You will need to pick one and answer it THOROUGHLY.  Make sure you address ALL aspects of the question.  The essay section is worth 40 points.  Since the essay is worth 40 points, make sure you answer it fully and provide examples.  That means that your essay should be more than a page.  Additionally, you need to write in essay form, with an intro, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.  DO NOT write one long paragraph. 

1. From about the 1870s until the turn of the 20^th century, the United States emerged as an imperial nation.  Discuss and explain the domestic issues and factors that led to rapid expansion.  Additionally, explain the justification or rationale that the U.S. gave for this expansion.  What was the Open Door Policy and why did the United States pursue it?  Be sure to provide concrete examples (at least three) to support you explanations. 

2. The years between the turn of the 20^th century and the beginning of World War I are know as the Progressive Era in American history.  What was Progressivism and why did it occur when it did (during and following the so-called Gilded Age)?  Was Progressivism one coherent movement, or made up of multiple, often competing and/or conflicting movements?  Explain and give examples.  What were the basic differences between social liberals and corporate liberals?  Provide specific examples of each type of Progressivism and the kinds of reforms each advocated.  Additionally, provide at least three examples of the lasting effects of Progressivism, such as legislation and/or social phenomena.  

3. During the First World War, the United States repeatedly proclaimed its neutrality.  Was the U.S. really neutral?  Why would some have argued that Woodrow Wilson was not behaving as a neutral in the war?  Make sure to provide examples of specific policies or actions of the U.S. and/or Wilson that support your claim.