Current Events Summary # 5

Domestic Policies of China

The people of China have been dealing with sexual harassment and related matters for a while now. For the first time, China established gender equality as a national policy. Women in China are now allowed to charge their husbands or any other men that are abusive to them and/or harass them. Even though women can now charge men for sexual harassment, they are still far from becoming completely equal in their society. Meanwhile, domestic violence still remains a huge problem in China. Although women now have a stand in free speech to take legal action against men who are abusive, it will still take a lot of legislative power to change and make an effect towards the way women are viewed in the Chinesse society.

Another issue that China is currently dealing with in the society is a teacher who took advantage of more than 20 young girls. The Chinesse government took action once they found out Chi Yao and his wife, Zhao Qingmei, had a "child-sex ring". These people are a disapointment to the society because of the involvement in such an action. The couple just got of the lane of death last week, but is facing a lifetime in jail.

These two articles are involved in the domestic policies of China because the people are being mistreated. Between these articles it seems that China has issues mainly dealing with girls/women. Although young girls were horribly mistreated, China seems to be making an effort to change the rights of women in their society.

Project Plan

1. Demonstrate the evolution of the concepts of personal freedom, individual responsibility, and respect for human dignity.

• USII.17 Explain important domestic events that took place during WWII. (Chapter 24-1,3,&4) (Chapter 25)


• USII.25 Analyze the origins, goals, and key events of the Civil Rights movement.(Chapter 29)


• USII.27 Analyze the causes and courses of the women's rights movement in the 1960s and 1970s.(Chapter 31-2&3)


• USII.30 Describe some of the major economic and social trends of the late 20th century.(Chapter 32, Chapter 33-1,2&4, Chapter 34)

*Standard Essay

Chapter 23-5: Critical Thinking # 4

How successful do you think Franklin Roosevelt was as a president? Support your answer with details from the text.

Franklin Roosevelt, as a president, was quit successful. In favor of the environment, President Roosevelt was "highly committed to conservation and promoted policies designed to protect the nation's natural resources (pg. 725). His commitments to the environment showed how he wasn't just in it for the power, but he cared for the social and environmental effects. FDR must have been pretty successful also because each election he had high ratings and was popular among the working-class Americans. Even today some of his reforms under the New Deal continue to direct American politics and society. He supported the people of the country and made an effort to rebuild everything that they all once had. Even though President Roosevelt gave more power to the federal government, it was needed to shape the economy. FDR also was a successful president because he made many acts that benefited the country and helped rebuild their finances and economy.

Chapter 23-5: Critical Thinking # 3

Some critics have charged that the New Deal was antibusiness and anti-free enterprise. Explain why you agree or disagree with this charge. Think About:

• the expanded power of the federal government
• the New Deal's effect on the economy
• the New Deal's effect on the American people

Chapter 23-4: Critical Thinking # 3

What type of movies do you think might have been produced if the government had supported moviemaking as part of the New Deal? Use evidence from the chapter to support you response.

If the government had supported moviemaking as part of the New Deal, many movies would have been able to be made. A lot of the movies made would most likely be comical and about topics that everyone in that time frame could relate to. Movies would have probably consisted of a lot of made up things and fantasy plots, such as The Wizard of Oz and Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. These movies both had people going through difficult times, like the people who were suffering from the Great Depression, but in the end had a happy and good result. As a result, if movies were allowed to be part of the New Deal, they would probably have related to each person and held the point that everything was going to get better. The movies could show how the government could help the people and win over those who were greedy and unkind. If moviemaking was allowed as a part of the New Deal, many social and political accomplishments would be made.

Chapter 23-1: Critical Thinking # 3

Of the New Deal programs discussed in this section, which do you consider the most important? Explain your choice. Think About:

• the type of assistance offered by each program
• the scope of each program
• the impact of each program

The New Deal program focused on three general goals: relief for the needy, economic recovery, and financial reform. The most important seemed to be the financial reform. FDR made a huge effort to improve the financial reform and showed less focus on the relief for the needy and economic recovery. A huge part of the financial reform dealt with banks and the rebuilding of the people's confidence. To reorganize the banking system, the Glass-Steagall Act was passed, establishing the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) (pg. 696.) The FDIC provided insurance for individual banks accounts which reassured the people that their money was safe. To rebuild financial reform Congress and the president also regulated the stock market. Due to the crash of 1929, many people lost their faith in the stock market. For this matter, the Federal Securities Act was passed, "requiring corporations to provide complete information on all stock offerings and made them liable for any misrepresentations" (pg. 696.) The financial reform focused on rebuilding the economy and their confidence in public affairs.

Current Events Summary # 4

Domestic Policies of China

The president of China, Hu Jintao, is extremely powerful but is almost completely unknown around the world. By the year 2012, the people of China can expect Xi Jinping to take over for Hu Jintao and become the new president. Recently, four new members have joined the Standing Committee, in favor of President Hu Jintao. The Standing Committee is currently trying to change the balance of power in order to give more power to Mr. Hu. Giving Mr. Hu more power will lead to a success in his agenda of economic reform. If Mr. Hu's plan of economic reform is accomplished, the people of China and China as a whole will be better off, due to the fact that their economic issues would be in a better condition. The party's decision to cherish the presidents "scientific outlook on development" into its constitution is seen as a success for him and the people of China. The considerable changes in power will leave the new generation of leaders in control. The attempts to change the economic issues with leave the people of China with higher hopes to get back on on the right foot. The reform of economics will get a grip on the country's political system. Everything that is undergoing harsh conditions could be changed by the movement of President Hu Jintao.

Another form of power that has been portrayed in China is dealing with the copper mining company. Recently the Chinese mining company has won the ability to make one of the largest copper mines in Afghanistan. Although this relation is more of a foreign trade issue, the outcome will benefit for the people of China. For the tons of people who work in the mining company, this ability will lead to a much greater income than usual. China will be known for their great mining works and the huge outcome of winning the major project in Afghanistan. This investment will be the largest one in Afghans history.

Chapter 22-3: Critical Thinking # 3

How did Hoover's belief in "rugged individualism" shape his policies during the Great Depression? Think About:

• what his belief implies about his view of people
• how that translates into the told of government
• Hoover's policies

Hoover's belief in "rugged individualism" shaped his policies during the Great Depression because he believed that "people should succeed through their own efforts" (pg. 685). Hoover also believed that the government should step in when businesses and labor were in conflict to find a solution that would serve their mutual interests. Hoover didn't believe in any form of welfare because he thought that it was a hand out to the needy. He thought that welfare and direct relief to the needy would "weaken people's self-respect and moral fiber" (page 685). This policy of his told the needy that individuals, charities, and local organizations should all join in and help care for those who were less fortunate. In Hoover's opinion, he thought that direct relief measures were demoralizing and a lack of character. Hoover wanted to strengthen character and preserve the sense of real government that the nation had.

Chapter 22-2: Critical Thinking # 3

How was what happened to men during the Great Depression different from what happened to women? children? Think About:

• each group's role in their families
• the changes each group had to make
• what help was available to them

During the Great Depression, men were effected differently compared to what happened to women and children. Men had such a hard time during the Great Depression because they were used to working ans supporting their family. Day by day men would have to go out and search for new jobs, even if they continually got turned down. Some men were under so much pressure and tension that they left their families. As a result to leaving their families, there were as many as 300, 000 "hoboes" around the country. These men would turn up at homeless shelters in big cities every so often. During this time the women worked to keep their families going. Many would can food and sew clothes. They also controlled their household budgets. Other than at home, women also worked outside the home, but they received less than men did. As the Great Depression continued, many people began to "attack" the role of women, saying that they shouldn't be working when there were men who couldn't even get jobs. Eventually, people began to refuse to hire women. What happened to men was different from what happened to women because men were seen begging in the streets and standing in lines to get bread, while women were portrayed as if they had it easier. Although, many women would "starve to death in cold attics and rooming houses" (pg.682). They had less of a chance now to get a job, for example as a schoolteacher. During the time of the Great Depression, what happened to children was different from men and women too. Many children suffered with poor diets and diet-related diseases. Their education was cut short because school boards shortened the school year due to falling tax revenues. Instead of going to school, children often worked in sweatshops. Also, teenagers who wanted to avoid the suffering found a way to get out of the country and look for jobs, usually jumping onto trains. Even though the people who jumped into trains were just teenagers, many were jailed, beaten, or eventually killed (adults were also included in this treatment.) As a result, even though men, women, and children all suffered during the Great Depression, they were very much different. They all were treated differently and suffered in their own ways.

Chapter 22-1: Critical Thinking # 4

Judging from the events of the late 1920s and early 1930s, how important do you think public confidence is to the health of the economy? Explain. Think About:

• what happened when overconfidence in the stock market led people to speculate and buy on margin
• how confidence affects consumer borrowing

Judging from the events of the late 1920s and early 1930s, the public confidence was very important and had an effect on the economy. People began to have great confidence in the stock market, leading to more and more investments. When the stock prices continued to rise, people took advantage of the situation. They rushed to buy stocks and bonds, having more confidence than usual. Over time the confidence in the stock market grew even more and people began to engage in speculation. This meant that they were buying stocks and bonds on the chance of a fast profit, ignoring the the risks they were taking. Many people began to buy on margin, leaving people most likely unable to pay off the loans if the value of the stocks declined. Eventually the stock hit its peak and then feel, which made the confidence of people very weak. Some people sold their stocks right away and pulled out. When the stock market finally hit the bottom, the nation's confidence fell with it as well. Everyone then panicked, which probably made the situation even worse. As a result, the confidence of the people in the late 1920s and early 1930s had a huge effect on the health of the economy because it factored into making the depression more severe.

Chapter 21-4: Critical Thinking # 5

What did the Harlem Renaissance contribute to both black and general American history?

The Harlem Renaissance contributed to both black and general American history because they gained a lot of literature and musical culture to their every day life. During this time African American writers became more known for their work. Poems became a very popular aspect to the people. Performers of jazz also gained popularity, as well as performers of plays. Throughout the African American culture, the Harlem Renaissance gave African Americans a better life and set higher standards for African American life in the future.

Chapter 21-1: Critical Thinking # 5

Do you think the passage of the Volstead Act and the ruling in the Scopes trial represented genuine triumphs for traditional values? Think About:

• changes in urban life in the 1920s
• the effects of Prohibition
• the legacy of the Scopes trial

I think that the passage of the Volstead Act and the ruling in the Scopes trial did represent genuine triumphs for traditional values. During the Scopes trial people were fighting for their religious beliefs because a biology teacher tried to teach his student the theory of evolution. Since the theory of evolution was completly against their traditional values, the process of the Scopes trial was justifiable. The Volstead Act was also a genuine triumph for traditional values because the act actually worked. Even though Prohibition lead to many problems, the ending result, overall, did decline in the amount of alcohol that was consumed daily, which was the point of the act.

Chapter 20-1: Critical Thinking # 3

Do you think Americans were justified in their fear of radicals and foreigners in the decade following World War I? Explain our answer. Think About:

• the goals of the leaders of the Russian Revolution
• the challenges facing the United States

I do think that the Americans were justified in their fear of radicals and foreigners in the decade following the World War I. One threat that Americans dealt with was communism. Communism was an economic and political system based on a single-party government ruled by a dictatorship. Americans were right to act the way they did during the "Red Scare". During this time period things like sending bombs through the mail to the U.S government occured. Once a communist party had formed, it made sense that America acted they way it did. They feared that the Communists were going to take over the U.S.

Even though America seemed to have a logically reason for fearing radicals and foreigners, some actions they did were not justifiable. For instance, the KKK was a huge event that was overly exagerated. Also, the Palmer raids and quota system could have also been easier without.

Chapter19-4: Critical Thinking # 5

Predict Germany's reaction to the Treaty of Versailles. Give reasons for your predictions. Think About:

• What Germans thought of the war-guilt clause
• German reaction to reparations
• how Germans felt about the loss of territory

I think that the Germans reacted as if the Americans and other nations were trying to pin the whole war on them. As the term "war-guilt clause" takes affect, Germany didn't like the idea that they would have to admit to total responsibility for starting World War I. Germany must have been very angry and confused when they were told they had to pay the huge financial reparations, while other nations were involved in the war as well. Along with the complete blame of World War I and the responsibility of the war damages, the Germans also lost territory. They were required to give bach the region of Alsace-Lorriane.

Chapter 19-4: Critical Thinking # 3

Why didn't the Treaty of Versailles lay the foundations for a lasting peace?

The Treaty of Versailles established nine new nations which included Poland, Czechoslovakia, and Yugoslavia, and also shifted the boundaries of other nations. Although, the Treaty of Versailles didn't lay the foundations for a lasting peace because of the treatment of Germany. The treaty barred Germany from maintaining an army. It also made Germany return the region of Alsace-Lorraine to France and to pay for war damages to the Allies. Because the treaty had several flaws, it was weakened and eventually would lead to the Second World War because of its international problems.

Chapter 19-3: Critical Thinking # 5

Do you think that war had a positive or negative effect on American society? Think About:

• how the propaganda campaign influenced people's behavior
• the new job opportunities for African Americans and women
• how the government controlled industry

On the American society I think that the war had a negative effect. First of all, the propaganda campaigns made people filled with hatred and violations of the civil liberties of certain ethnic groups and opportunites of the war. Many pamphlets, booklets, and leaflets were intended to promot patriotism but instead filled many people with anger. The war also gave the government the power to control industries. It also left people without the option to speak negativily about the war. Over all, the war effected the American society mentally and physically. Although, the war did open up to job opportunities for African Americans and women. The war caused much more African American migration and less European immigration. When African Americans moved to the north, many jobs were open for them to take.

Chapter19-3: Critical Thinking # 3

How did the war affect government power? Think About:

• how private business worked with government
• how much control the president gained over the economy
• the Espionage and Sedition Acts

The war affected government power in many ways. First of all, the way that private businesses were ran changed. Instead of taking the risk of being totally taken over by the government during war, for example food administrations, private businesses came to many agreements with the government. The more that the economy focused on the war effort, the better off they were. Because industries weren't just dealing with their normal customers and were now dealing with war efforts, the government felt that they had to take over and process everything, expanding greatly. As for the president, the war affected his power very much. Due to the fact that World War I was such a conflict, the president gained power over the economy to fix and to regulate prices on certain war-related industries, which was even nationalized. Lastly, the war affected the government power because of the Espionage and Sedition Acts. With the Espionage and Sedition Acts a person could be fined up to $10,000 and sentenced to 20 years in prison for interfering with the war effort and government, whether they were disloyal, disrespectful or abusive about any matter.

Chapter 19-2: Critical Thinking # 3

In what ways did the WWI represent a frightening new kind of warfare? Think About:

• the casualty figures
• new military technology
• shell shock

World War I represented a frightening new kind of warfare in many ways. During World War I there were more deaths and it was the bloodiest war in history up to that time. The new weapons and tactics that were presented on the battlefields were very large-scale to what things used to be like. Being able to use such new and improved technology, soldiers could attack from greater distances than ever. The technology at war became much more advanced and was used to the greatest extent. World War I was a fright to the new kind of warfare because it introduced new hazards, becoming much more serious and deadly to each opponent.

Chapter 19-1: Critical Thinking # 5

Why do you think Germany escalated its U-boat attacks in 1917? Think About:

• Germany's military buildup
• the effects of the British blockade
• Germany's reason for using submarine warfare

Germany escalated its U-boat attacks in 1917 because of Germany's military buildup, the British blockade, and the use of submarine warfare. As war continued on land, Britain decided to use the tactic of the sea and their naval strength. Any ships that were found in the waters around Britain would be sunk. U-boats had the advantage of attacking ships without the crew or passangers having any knowledge. Also, when the British blockaded Germany, using submarines, Germany could counterblockade them back. The new use of submarine warfare was also probably escalated because it was a "sneaky" defending mechanism.

Chapter 19-1: Critical Thinking # 4

Why were America's ties with the Allies stronger than its ties with the Central Powers?

America's ties with the Allies were stronger than its ties with the Central Powers because it provided a worldwide security. Due to the fact that the Allies were not interested in breaking the balance of power with America, a bond was made. The Allies, which consisted of France, Britain and Russia, were mainly looking for protection and independence. The nations that were in alliance with America disliked the thought of domination but instead longed for their nations to become independent. A stronger tie between America and the Allies were also made because those who had emigrated to America, from Germany for instance, offered their condolences with their nation. While emigrants still sympathized with their nations, America tied into Britain because of common ancestry and language. Also, America's economic ties with the Allies were much stronger than its ties with the Central Powers.

Current Events Summary # 3

Domestic Policies of West Africa

Sierra Leone has recently elected a new president to term named Ernest Bai Koroma. Mr. Koroma's main goal is to "tackle" corruption. By this Mr. Koroma basically means that he will not allow people to act in such a manner that is dishonest practice. He told the BBC that he would even be onto his own family members if they were part of a corrupt act. Beforehand, Mr. Koroma won a very close battle in an election. Mr. Koroma's actions and loyalty shows the dedication that the country's democracy is receiving. Even though Sierra Leone had a very poor government, Mr. Koroma claims that the government will develop and be enhanced. Making the effort to establish a stronger, better government, Mr. Koroma stated that he and his office will not make the same mistakes that have been made over the last 20 years. As is shown, Mr. Koroma seems to give a positive position for the people of Sierra Leone and the governance.

While the new president of Sierra Leone promises he will deal with corruption, the Nigerian government, and people of Nigeria, are struggling with this act. The governance of Nigeria doesn't seem to be democratic but is as if a resemblance of criminal activity is being portrayed. In Nigeria, hundreds of people have lost their lives and oil revenues have been corrupt or "misplaced". Having the political office use the violence of gangs to recruit politicians is obviously getting too out of control. To make a positive change, the president, Umaru Yar'Adua, and the government of Nigeria would have to take charge of things right away. This country has no time to spare. Reforming the government of Nigeria will be a difficult task, but in order to repair and save the human lives and the political system, control over corruption has to be made.

As a result, within Western Africa, many countries have been dealing with the act of corruption. Whether the effort to change the circumstances they are in have been positive or negative, each region is dealing with the same problems.

Chapter 18-4: Critical Thinking # 4

In your opinion, should the United States have become involved in the affairs of Colombia, Nicaragua, and Mexico during the early 1900s? Support your answer with details. Think About:

• the effect of Roosevelt Corollary
• the results of dollar diplomacy
• the implication of Wilson's missionary diplomacy

I think that the United States made a poor decision when they became involved in the affairs of Columbia, Nicaragua, and Mexico during the early 1900s. These countries did not hold anything against the United States and didn't cause any trouble. The United States would have had a lot less on their hands if they were to stay out of their affairs. Also, becoming involved in these affairs, I think that the United States went in thinking of all the more power they would have. The United States seemed to have taken advantage of these countries, in order to stay in control. In the end, the United States shouldn't have become involved in the affairs of Columbia, Nicaragua, and Mexico.

Chapter 18-4: Critical Thinking # 3

What do you think were the similarities and differences between Roosevelt's Big Stick policy and Wilson's missionary diplomacy? Use evidence from the text to support your response. Think About:

• the goal of each of these foreign policies
• how the policies defined the role of U.S. intervention in international affairs
• how the policies were applied

Roosevelt's Big Stick policy stood for how Roosevelt threatened violence among the countries to gain authority in the Caribbean and Central America. Roosevelt was so determined to make the United States the predominant power of each region (p.568). He quoted, "Speak softly and carry a big stick, you will go far" (p.568) While Roosevelt used the "Big Stick" policy, Wilson used something called "missionary diplomacy". Wilson's "missionary diplomacy" stated that "the United States had a moral responsibility to deny recognition to any Latin American government it viewed oppressive, undemocratic or hostile to U.S. interests" (p.559). Wilson's policy pressured nations into the West to develop democratic governments. In the end, Roosevelt and Wilson had different tactics, but their goals were the same; determined to make the United States the predominant power in the Caribbean and Central America.

Chapter 18-3: Critical Thinking # 4

How was U.S. policy toward China different from U.S. policy toward the Philippines? To what can you attribute the difference?

The U.S. policy toward China was different from the U.S. policy toward the Philippines. The policy towards the Philippines was very similar to what had happened to Puerto Rico. Once many African American soldiers had rebelled and became friends with the Philippines, the United States took three years to get everything back under control. Once the power was back into their hands, they established a government, like they did for Puerto Rico, where they would appoint a governor, who would appoint the legislature's upper house. The Philippines could only elect the lower house of the legislature. After a while of the Americans ruling the Philippines, they finally became independent and became a republic on July 7, 1946 (p.561).
While the U.S. had ruled the Philippines, like Puerto Rico, they saw China as a potential market for American products. Even though China was weaker at this time, from war and foreign intervention, the United States feared that China would turn into different colonies and American traders would be left out (p.562). In fear, the U.S. Secretary of State John Hay enforced letter that were called the Open Door notes, to protect American interests.
While China could keep its freedom, the Philippines were controlled differently by the United States because they were seen as the "gateway to the rest of Asia" (p.562). Basically, China did not get over-powered by the U.S. government because the United States needed to remain on their good side for economical growth.

Chapter 18-3: Critical Thinking # 3

How did American rule of Puerto Rico harm Puerto Ricans? How did it help Puerto Ricans? Do you think the benefits outweighed the harmful effects? Why or why not?

American rule of Puerto Rico harmed Puerto Ricans because America could not promise them their independence. Puerto Rico was important to the U.S. to be able to remain in the Caribbean and for protecting a future canal that American leaders wanted to build(p.559). For this reason, Puerto Rico was controlled by the military, unless Congress decided to change the arrangements. While the United States had complete control over Puerto Rico, this harmed them the most. The government of Puerto Rico was not a real government. Even the people had little participation; only being able to vote for the legislature's lower house(p.559). Even though American rule of Puerto Rico had many disadvantages, it protected them. In the end it also gave Puerto Ricans their U.S. citizenship, being able to move between the island and the mainland(p.559). I do think that the benefits outweighed the harmful effects because in the end Puerto Rico regained their government back, which was civilized, and they became U.S. citizens.

Chapter 18-2: Critical Thinking # 3

What do you think were the unstated editorial policies of yellow journalism? Support your answer with evidence from the text.

• James Creelman's account of Spanish atrocities against Cubans (page552)
• Hearst's remark to Remington
• the Journal headline about the explosion of the battleship Maine

Yellow journalism is a piece of writing that exaggerates the news to grab people's attention and enrage the readers. I think that the unstated editorial policies of yellow journalism was writers competing with one another. Each writer would use their bias opinions and write things that may not have been true, or were just overly exaggerated. The unstated work concentrated on human interests and material. Once Hearst and Pulitzer began to print accounts that were overly exaggerated by reporters, like James Creelman, newspaper circulation was filled with yellow journalism (probably leading to many "wars" (competition) between many different newspapers). Also, a huge factor that had an effect on newspapers and editorials during this time were the banner headlines and illustrations.

Chapter 18-1:Critical Thinking # 5

In the following passage, how does Indiana Senator Albert J. Beveridge explain the need for the U.S. to acquire new territories?

Fate has written our policy for us; the trade of the world must and shall be ours... we will establish trading posts throughout the world as distributing points for American products... Great colonies governing themselves, flying our flag and trading with us, will grow about our posts of trade.

In this passage Indiana Senator Albert J. Beveridge explains the need for the U.S. to acquire new territories by suggesting how it is the American responsibility to expand. Beveridge gives reasons to why the U.S. needs new territories. He mentions how the fate of America is to expand into new territories and the trade should and must be in the hands of Americans. Beveridge also states that with new territories, the ability to create trading posts around the world would be available for Americans to distribute their products. With these beneficial posts, the trade and sale of American products would aid to the world and unite everyone through trade. Without the expansion into new territories, each region would have less of a chance to thrive for success. Albert J. Beveridge ends his statement by saying how each colony would still be able to govern themselves, but in that process, everyone would also have a better trading position to rely on.

Chapter 18-1: Critical Thinking # 3

Manifest destiny greatly influenced American policy during the first half of the 19th century. How do you think manifest destiny set the stage for American imperialism at the end of the century?

Manifest destiny set the stage for American imperialism at the end of the 19th century because the Americans took over land that belonged to the Native Americans, leaving them with hardly anything. While gaining land, the act of imperialism was a trend for the Americans because they were able to spread their economic, political, and military control into newer territories. Becoming more world wide, the Americans would continue to be able to make a difference/improvement with their economics, politics, and their military. Having the power to claim land as their own, the Americans would continue to spread through the region. Once land was taken over and the population grew, due to manifest destiny, the Americans had a stronger want for more markets. With more markets they had a larger variety to sell goods from and to the people, as well as a larger population and area to trade goods/appliances with. The political views of America were also influenced by manifest destiny because the Americans viewed themselves as stronger, more powerful individuals, making them strive for more. Lastly, the military gained strength due to manifest destiny. Establishing a better military, America would be able to have more control and protections of things.. They could also use the seas for transportation, now having more land to have camps and more variety of protection to go to.

Chapter 17-5: Critical Thinking # 4

Why do you think Wilson failed to push for equality for African Americans, despite his progressive reforms? Think About:

• progressive presidents before Wilson
• Wilson's background
• the primary group of people progressive reforms targeted

I think that Wilson failed to push for equality for African Americans because growing up with a Southern background, he had a strict view when it came to politics. Being a former governor of New Jersey, Wilson probably knew that supporting equality for African Americans was very hard to achieve. Many white votes would over throw his voice and shut it right down. The prejudice against African Americans would prevent him to use his federal power to give civil rights to African Americans. Also, the primary group of people progressive reforms targeted were those who were "average" people. These people that were targeted most likely owned a large business, company, and/or industry. Therefore, seeing how progressive reforms targeted the white poplulation, Wilson would not have as much support if he were to support the equality for African Americans in the economy.

Chapter 17-3: Critical Thinking # 5

Why dud W.E.B. Du Bois oppose Booker T. Washington's views on racial discrimination?

W.E.B. Du Bois opposed Booker T. Washington's views on racial discrimination because Booker T. Washington thought that African Americans should have a separate economy from the "whites". While Washington believed that segregation and black poverty was a blame on African Americans, W.E.B. Du Bois thought that African Americans deserved social and economic equality; it didn't matter that they were a different skin color. W.E.B. Du Bois opposed Washingtons views because he didn't think any less of African Americans. Instead of discriminating against African Americans because of their racial difference, W.E.B. Du Bois wanted to give every single person the same rights as the next guy.

Chapter 17-2: Critical Thinking # 5

Imagine you are a women during the Progressive Era. Explain how you might recruit other women to support education, housing reform, food and drug laws, the right to vote. Think About:

• the problems that each movement was trying to remedy
• how women benefited from each cause

If I were a women during the Progressive Era, I would probably do many different things to recruit women to support education, housing reform, food and drug laws, and the right to vote.

When it came to the support of education, I would state how every women deserved just as much of a right to get educated as men had. All because there was a difference in gender, does not mean that women were any less than men. With the option to be educated, women would be extremely intelligent and would therefore be able to set a better life for themselves and their families. Being a women in the Progressive Era, I would recruit women to support the right of education by proving to them how women are just as smart and deserve to set a good future. Also, I would try to get the women in the Progressive Era to participate in more reform activities. By inspiring the economy to help one another, the lives of women and children could be improved at the home.

While the topics of education and reform activities were more of a personal option for women, the food and drug laws needed to be changed. Being a women during this time, I would argue and point out how not making a change in the food and medicine that everyone was taking in, would cause health issues. The companies that made the food and medicine should have put everything that went into each item on a label. Whether a person chose to pick things that were very unhealthy was their issue, but for the best of each women and their husbands, and if any kids, laws to improve the food and medicine industries were in best interest.

Also, I would recruit women to vote. I would argue that every person has the right to make their own decisions. Just because you are a different from the typical man, does not mean that you get the worst of things. Being a human, and an adult, each and every women deserves the right to vote. The importance of equality would be stressed very much. Women had every right to vote because if men were involved in the government, women had the same amount of intelligence to make the right decisions and state their opinions by voting as well.

Chapter 17-1: Critical Thinking # 4

This cartoon shows Carry Nation inside a saloon that she has attacked. Do you think the cartoonist had a favorable or unfavorable opinion of this prohibitionists? Explain.

I think that the cartoonist who drew Carry Nation attacking a saloon had an unfavorable opinion. Carry Nation believed in prohibition; the banning of alcohol. Although she would walk into saloons and yell at customers, using her hatchet to destroy the alcohol, the cartoon seems to be over exaggerated.

In the cartoon, items that weren't bottles of alcohol were also destroyed. The cartoonist made Carry Nation appear as a crazy lady who would totally wreck places, when really she would try to send the message across to stop the consumption of alcohol. The faces on the people in the saloon also show an unfavorable opinion of Carry Nation's "attacks" on saloons. The men in the picture appear to be extremely frightened, while hiding behind counters and walls, as if they were afraid for their lives. Not only are smashed bottles of alcohol on the floor, but the mirrors and pictures have also been tampered with. Clearly, Carry Nation did not bother to destroy any other item besides liquor because she had her heart set on banning alcoholic beverages. One of the best ways that Carry Nation, and other prohibitionists, could have dealt with trying to ban alcoholic beverages was to make alliances with the people they were trying to change, not enemies.

Chapter 17-1: Critical Thinking # 3

In what ways might Illinois, Wisconsin, and Oregon all be considered trailblazers in progressive reform? Support your answers. Think About:

• legislative and electoral reforms at the state level
• the leadership of William U'Ren and Robert La Follette
• Florence Kelley's appointment as chief inspector of factories for Illinois

Illinois, Wisconsin, and Oregon may be considered trailblazers in progressive reform for many reasons. In most cases, progressive leaders depended on the scientific principles to make society and the workplace more efficient. First of all, Illinois could be considered a trailblazer because it was the first region to prohibit child labor and limit women's working hours. This act was known as the Illinois Factory Act in 1893, inspired by Florence Kelley. After Illinois made this act, it became a model for other states. Also, Wisconsin could have been considered a trailblazer in progressive reform because it focused on regulating big businesses, mainly railroads. By regulating businesses, Robert M. La Follettte, having Republican leadership in Wisconsin, made it so the larger businesses would become less involved in politics and be treated more like the average person. This state level effort helped regulate rates and daily activity. Lastly, Oregon could also be viewed as a trailblazer because it made the workday for a women a ten-hour day. Other states responded to this change. Most states strengthened laws to lower the hours of work required for women, eventually leading to a ten-hour workday for men as well.

Current Events Summary # 2

Domestic Policies of West Africa

The main topic that West Africa deals with is whether the President Umaru Yar'Adua will deliver his responsibilities to the people. The West African region is also domestically struggling with what efforts the government is proceeding with to make a positive change of matters.

In effort to leave influence on Sierra Leone, the Nigerian nation gave permission to make a blockade against the capital in a summit at Abuja. The domestic policy of this action is to try and change situations that the people do not agree with. The government had also created a peace agreement with Sierra Leone's military government. Trying to maintain peace with Sierra Leone's military government is in best interest for West Africa because people are beginning to blame Sierra Leone for the previous round of fighting.

The people of the Nigerian government are domestically dealing with situations by trying to make peace with Sierra Leone because they claim that they want national peace. They also want the people of each region to vote for a democratic government. By setting a good example for the local and international people of West Africa, democracy in Africa has slight possibilities, and is a working matter.

Chapter 15-2: Critical Thinking # 5

What effects did the migration from rural areas to the cities in the late 19th century have on urban society? Think About:

• why people moved to cities
• the problems caused by rapid urban growth
• the differences in the experiences of whites and blacks

Migration from rural areas to the cities in the late 19th century effected the urban society. Since improvements were being made on farming technology, laborers were needed less in the fields. The reaper and steel plow could do the farming job much faster than by hand. Because of these improvements, people, once farmers, moved to cities to find replacements jobs. Coming from the South, the farmers were mainly African American. Once they settled in the cities to find jobs, they discovered that the new living conditions weren't much of a difference. (p.469)

In the Northern cities, the rapid urban growth did not turn out for the best. Segregation and discrimination were a huge part of the North, and since most farmers coming from the South were African Americans, the job competition effected the society because there was even more racial tension. (p. 469)

As rural migration settled in the Northern cities, the urban society did not turn out for the best. The racial violence, economic hardship, political oppression, and lack of jobs for the farmers of the South did not change and "stuck around" along with many other urban problems.

Chapter 15-2: Critical Thinking # 4

Which solution (or attempted solution) to an urban problem discussed in this section do you think had the most impact? Why?

As cities grew larger, many urban problems factored in. From difficulties with houses, transportation, water resources, sanitation, crime and fire, city governments face the problems of how to provide the people with all their needed services.

In attempt to find a solution for the problems in the cities, the greatest affect was categorized under the matter of transportation.With so much population in the cities, safe transportation was very hard to manage. The solution for transportation problems was something called mass transit. Mass transits were large systems that had been designed to carry a great amount of people on fixed routes. With fixed routes for transportation offered, people could get to their jobs and back much easier. After time, between 1873 and 1897 street cars were invented as well as electric subways.

Not only did the solutions for better transportation result in easier lives for the people and workers, but they linked areas of cities to one another. Even thought this did not expand the population in a huge factor, it did get the cities around easier and joined/connected them with their neighboring communities.

Chapter 15-1: Critical Thinking # 4

What were the effects of the massive influx of immigrants to the U.S. in the late 1800s?

In the late 1800s, due to the huge entry of immigrants to the U.S., a lot of anti-immigration feelings came forward. A huge effect on immigrants coming to the U.S. appeared in nativism. Nativism was when people showed favoritism toward native-born Americans. (p. 464)

While the massive influx of immigrants appeared to have a negative effect on the people themselves, many immigrants helped build nation wide devices, such as railroads. As more and more people immigrated to the U.S., more workers could be recruited for huge job opportunities.

Even though some native-born Americans did not like immigrations at all, the move to the United States effected the society in the late 1800s in more positive ways. The immigrants helped construct things and work, while also giving up some of their cultural identities to become a melting pot (where the country would be viewed as a mixture of different people blended together.) (p. 464)

Chapter 15-1: Critical Thinking # 3

Which group of immigrants do you think faced the greatest challenges in the United States? Why?

Entering the United States as an immigrant, everyone had trouble and many of the same challenges. The group of immigrants that probably had the greatest challenges in the United States were the Chinese.

Chinese immigrants came to the West Coast in small groups while Europeans arrived in groups of millions. (p. 461) Most Chinese immigrants went to the United States in search of jobs and to find fortunes after the discovery of gold.

Because Chinese specifically went to the United States in search of jobs, people were afraid that they would work for less money, and therefore take over their jobs. With this fear, labor groups went straight to the government. Over time, the government passed an act against Chinese immigration. This act was called The Chinese Exclusion Act, in which Chinese immigrants were banned from entering the United States. This movement was put forth for all Chinese except students, teachers, merchants, tourists, and government officials. (p. 465)

As a result, the Chinese immigrants had the hardest time in the United States because people were strongly against Asian immigration. Of all the immigrants to enter the United States, the Chinese were the only ones to have an act made specifically for them and mainly only "Anti-Asian" groups were formed.

Current Events Summary

Within West Africa, the relations of domestic policies tie into the growth and impact of centralized state power. For example, the acticle dealing with ivory and the government taking actions to end the trade, shows that the centralized state has gained and put their power to full effect. Not only do the articles tie into the growth and impact of centralized state power, but they also relate to personal freedom. One article, in general, relates to personal freedom because the people of the region maintain the right to vote for a new president. With this option they can chose whats right for their country and well-being.

Chapter 14-3: Citical Thinking # 3

Do you think that the tycoons of the late 19 century are best described as ruthless robber barons or as effective captains of industry? Think About:

• their management tactics and business strategies
• their contributions of the economy
• their attitude toward competition

The tycoons of the late 19th century are best described as ruthless robber barons. They way they managed tactics and what business strategies they did have, were a factor in the role of ruthless robber barons. Not only did the way they handled their management and strategies show the role of the oil companies and steel factories, but how they treated their competition factored in as well.

The tycoons invloved industries that were of oil. The Standard Oil Company of the time was established by John D. Rockefeller. Even though Reckefeller donated over $500 million to provide funds for the Univeristy of Chicago and to donate to a medical institute (p.449), the way he gained the money had a worse effect. Rockefeller managed his oil company by running other businesses out of business, and by over charging his customers. Not to mention, but the conditions in which the workers of his industry worked in where uncomfortable. He would over work them and take advantage of his own workers.

Being one of the only oil companies around, people were forced to by oil from him. By the end of time, Rockerfellers oil company had controlled nearly 90 percent of all industries. Rockefeller can be considered a ruthless robber baron because he took even more money than needed from people, making a huge profit, and also tried to run other companies out of business for his own personal gain.

By the late 19th century, the tycoons had complete control of their money management. They went from the bottom of the heap to millionaires who took advantage of their competition and the people in the region. Even though contributions were made to the economy, the way Rockefeller managed his business and treated competition was cruel and hardhearted.

Chapter 14-2: Critical Thinking # 4

The federal government gave land and made lands to the railroad companies. Why was the government so eager to promote the growth of railroads? Think About:

• why the railroads had power
• the rights of the railroad customers and workers
• the scope of government regulations

The government was so eager to promote the growth of railroads because they made expansion of the western land possible and opened up a whole new world. The railroads had much power and gave customers and workers rights and privileges that were not as open to the public before railroads were created.

Railroads and railroad companies were promoted with such great eagerness, receiving land grants and loans from the government to improve the new land of the west. Not only were railroads promoted to develop settling in the West, but they also improved the country. The newly developed railroads linked each section of land to one another and united the nation.

While the nation was united and settlement in the west grew, businesses also had a positive change. By linking towns with railroads, communication within industries became much easier. Becoming a network, markets could sell large amounts of their products to the entire country. The income of businesses strongly grew and had the option to be exposed to new land.

Chapter 14-1: Critical Thinking #5

Which invention or development described in this section had the greatest impact on society? Justify you choice. Think About:

• the applications of inventions
• the impact of invetions on people's daily lives
• the effect of inventions on the workplace

There were numerous inventions and developments that made a huge impact on society. The greatest invention on society factored into electricity. The development of electricity changed how people lived and the way people worked. The way people lived were mainly changed because it made household appliances easier to function and to be managed.

While electricity changed the everyday lives of people, the world of business was mainly effected and changed for the best. The inventors that factored in, such as Thomas Alva Edison and George Westinghouse, made electricity much safer and cheaper. The advantage of electrical power made it easier to live the everyday like.

By the year 1890, machines that ran businesses were powered off of electrical power. (p. 438) The advantage of electricity in the business industry allowed companies to work in other locations, besides their used-to-be power source such as rivers. The invention of electricity enlarged industries and allowed them to develop them into a huge success.

Without electricity, other inventions and developments would not be able to be made and function. The advantage of electric power led to the invention of light bulbs by Thomas Edison and one of the greatest discoveries of all times, the telephone, invented by Alexander Graham Bell and Thomas Watson. Without electricity, these new developments would not be able to be used. As a result, the convenience of electricity had the greatest impact on the people in society and changed the industries and businesses.

Current Events: West Africa

Domestic Policies

Throughout West Africa, many of the regions are similar within domestic policies. While people in each region have to find the best way to deal with the government for whats best, they also have to work for their own lifestyle.

Ever since 2003, ivory has become popular in West Africa. Many elephants would be found dead, mainly by gangs of poachers, and the tusks would be used for ivory trade. This benefited the people of the region because ivory is very popular in Western Africa. Even though the trade of ivory is beneficial for the people in countries such as Liberia and Nigeria, and increased the income of markets, the government found that the domestic trade of ivory was to be handled under national legislation. It was declared that if the terms for trading ivory were not met, every domestic, legal trading options would be taken away.

Although the people that dwell within West Africa need to make money, the best way to deal with that is to not interfere with the government. Especially after the civil war, the people had to remain civilized and opened minded. To remain opened minded was in the best interest of the countries because when it came to electing a president, the best thing to do is make the right decision that helped the people.

In Nigeria, the people not only suffered from a civil war in the past, but was recently told that a change was to be made in their money system. Even though this announcement had been made publicly, everything did not follow through as planned because the President had put a hold on things. With such confusion on the control of the country, the President Yar'Adua, has been known for his non-leadership. This situation left higher exspectations from each country in West Africa of what the new president is to be.

There are numerous issues thats are relavent to the domestic policies in West Africa. The leadership of the people and what decisions they make involvoing the government are the strongest choices to be made.

Chapter 13-3: Critical Thinking # 3

What do you think were the most significant factors in bringing an end to the Populist Party? Think about:

• monetary policy
• third-party status
• source of popular support
• popular participation policy

The most significant factors to bringing an end to the Populist Party were the Panic of 1893, silver and gold, and the support of the population.

Throughout the 1880's, farmers had been exceeded of their limits with debts and loans. The railroad industry was spreading faster than stores. By the year of 1893, many companies were going bankrupt. This lead to panic of all the citizens and to the trade of paper money for gold. Once the supply of gold ran low, people traded the paper money that they had for silver, eventually putting silver mines out. Once a year had passed, the panic of the people became a stage of depression because businesses and companies incomes were falling. The unexpected downfall of the people caused much tension between the Populist Party and everyone who was in the situation. (p.428)

Once the trade for gold and silver became very large, the Populist Party had the responsibility of something called the monetary policy. The monetary policy made the Populists chose whether people can trade paper money for silver and gold, or just gold. Since the Populist Party was supported by the citizens and farmers who were in debt, everything they decided mattered. If the people could not trade in paper money for silver or gold, they thought that everything they had was completely useless. The thought of inflation became a huge problem and sent people into fear. (p.428)

If the source of support for the Populist Party declined, so did the role they had. Once the popular participation and popular support began to fall, the end of the Populist party became even closer. While loosing supporters, the Populist Party also had another disadvantage; they were a third-party status. They were considered a smaller, less powerful political party. As a result, once the issue of money came into hand, the Populist Party hit a weak spot. They lost their supporters and once William McKinley was nominated for president and debated that both gold and silver should be used, Populism came to a downfall. The farmers who were in debt and supported the Populist party now had lost all their expectations. (p.429)

Chapter 13-2: Critical Thinking #3

How successful were government efforts to promote settlement of the Great Plains? Think about:

• the growth in population on the Great Plains.
• the role of railroads in the economy.
• the Homestead Act.

The government effort to promote settlement of the Great Plains was very successful for many reasons. First of all, within a 30 year period, the growth of population increased. While people settled in the West, the government was very helpful by turning land that consisted of forest and prairies, into farmland. In all, another 400 million acres were changed into farmland for the people after 1870 to about 1900. (p. 420)

While increasing the amount of land to be settled on, the governments efforts to promote settlement of the Great Plains also took action by the expansion of railroads. The power of the federal government set aside 170 million acres. (p.420) With that, land grants were made, giving both the Union Pacific and the Central Pacific the opportunity to build as many railroads that they wanted. With the companies expanding railroads all over, people had the option to buy farming land off of the companies. The settlement in the west was also effected by railroads because the companies needed a large amount of people to work. The solution for the lack of workers was to haul in immigrants. The more railroads that were built lead to the need of workers, which lead to even more immigrants settling in the west for job opportunities.

The government was also successful with their efforts to promote settlement of the Great Plains when the Homestead Act was passed. The Homestead Act proposed 160 acres of land to any citizen for free. (p.421) Taking advantage of this offer, about 600,000 families were now living in the Great Plains. Even though the offer of 160 acres was plenty of land to live on, some settlers who claimed their land was too dry, changed the minds of the government and could now claim over 160 acres of land. In time, the government improved the Homestead Act and promoted even more settlers to settle in the West. Even though people began to claim land before the government stated it was open, the governments attempt to endorse settlement in the Great Plains was a huge success.