Learning Module 1 – In-class Essay - History 103 – Fall 2011[1]

Overview:

·         This essay must be written in class

·         It is worth 20 points

·         You can bring and use a topical outline for the essay.  You must submit this with your exam essay

·         The essay must be written in black or blue ink.  It also must be legible.  Use your best handwriting!


Exam Essay:  There are two essay topics. Each of these relies on the information on the two activities.  You are to choose an essay that is either about Social Reform in the United States or about Foreign Policy in the late 19th century.  Pay attention to the requirements for each of these two essays.  Feel free to contact me if you have questions and/or concerns.  Susan Oliver


Social and Reform Darwinism:
Approaches to Social Reform in the United States in the late 19th Century

The in-class exam essay must include the following information:

·         The definitions of Social Darwinism and Reform Darwinism.

·         The perspective on the issue of social reform by William Graham Sumner in “On a New Philosophy: Poverty is the Best Policy.”  Include answers to the following questions:

1.       Who does William Graham Sumner blame for those living in poverty?

2.       How is Sumner’s perspective an example of Social Darwinism? Cite one-to-two examples from the reading.

·         The perspective on social reform by Jane Addams, “Problems of Poverty.”    Include answers to the following questions:

1.       According to Addams, what has caused the impoverished circumstances? Who is at fault?

2.       How is this reading an example of Reform Darwinism? Cite one to two examples to from the reading.



Social Darwinism vs. Reform Darwinism:

Approaches to American Foreign Policy in the late 19th Century

The in-class exam essay must include the following information:

·         The definitions of Social Darwinism and Reform Darwinism.

·         Select  one of the following for your essay: 

Josiah Strong:

1.       What role did missionaries play in Strong's version of the future?

2.       In your opinion, is Strong a Social Darwinist or a Reform Darwinist?

3.       Or are his ideas a mix of both? Provide one or two specific examples that support your point of view.

Albert Beveridge:

1.       What benefits would expansion overseas bring to the United States? What benefits would the United States bring to its annexed territories?

2.       In your opinion, is Beveridge a Social Darwinist or a Reform Darwinist?

3.       Or are his ideas a mix of both? Provide one or two specific examples that support your point of view.

       McKinley:

1.       Why and how did McKinley believe that U.S. rule would benefit the Filipinos?

2.       In your opinion, is McKinley a Social Darwinist or a Reform Darwinist?

3.       Or are his ideas a mix of both? Provide one or two specific examples that support your point of view.


 



[1] Created: 8/3/11; updated8/31/2011