steP 1 Continuity and change over time and historical causation
In addition to reviewing the claims of John L. O’Sullivan and Frederick Jackson Turner, exam-
ine the patterns of United States expansionist policies between 1845 and 1890. Review
events, and consider the motivations behind such US policies.
What was happening in the second half of the nineteenth century that influenced Amer-
ica’s worldview? What were the economic, political, and social expectations about expan-
sionist thinking?
Also, consider whether the United States regarded the international world as an exten-
sion of the frontier. Did the United States continue to conquer new “wildernesses” in the
form of other countries?
Consider how some of the themes presented in this textbook may help frame your think-
ing about US expansionist policies. For example, were these policies related to the develop-
ment of work, exchange, and technology? Values, beliefs, and culture? Peopling?steP 2 Periodization
Using 1890 as a starting point, review some of Turner’s key claims. For example, he states
the following:Thus American development has exhibited not merely advance along a single line
but a return to primitive conditions on a continually advancing frontier line, and a
new development for that area.... This perennial rebirth, this fluidity of American
life, this expansion westward with its new opportunities, its continuous touch with the
simplicity of primitive society, furnish the forces dominating American character.Paraphrase Turner’s claims here to help frame your thinking. Consider the meanings of
“new opportunities,” the “simplicity of primitive society,” and Turner’s claims about the
American character. This will help guide your understanding of policies formed in 1890 and
beyond.
Review the competing messages from Documents 18.2 and 18.3. The cable to the Span-
ish ambassador and the platform of the American Anti-Imperialist League provide conflict-
ing messages about international expansion. The Spanish-American War (1898) represents a
break in the pattern and a potential turning point that marks a new period of US expansion-
ist policies. Your textbook and class notes may suggest additional ideas for turning points.steP 3 Historical argumentation
The breaks in the pattern qualify as a potential turning point and the beginning of a new
period—in this case, the alteration of US expansionist policies. If there are no breaks in the
pattern, then you would refute Turner’s thesis. Finding some breaks in the pattern suggests a
modification. For example, the United States’ economic motivations may have remained the
same, but its worldview changed dramatically. An acceptance of Turner’s claim would show a
shift in US expansionist policies.TopIC I | From Frontier to empire 41119_STA_2012_ch18_405-426.indd 411 17/04/15 10:11 AM