Abstract This paper looks at four separate issues regarding the Mexican-AmericanWar and its history and after-effects. The main questions examined are the imperialism involved in the war, the role of Santa Anna, the subsequent relationship between the two countries and the issues between them and finally the problems in bilingual education in California under governor Pete Wilson.
From the Paper "The history of the United States' relationship with Mexico is complex and war-torn and the Mexican-American War of 1846-48 is is an important milestone and point of departure in that relationship. This paper will look at some of the background of the war, questioning the role of American imperialism in the conflict, the role played by General Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna and the impact this war has had on US-Mexico relations subsequently, especially in border control disputes and bilingual education. At the beginning of 1845 California, Arizona and New Mexico belonged to Mexico and Texas was an independent country, having recently been won from Mexico, but on July 15, Texas became part of the United States (Fowler 240)."
Abstract This paper explains that both the Korean and Vietnam Wars were Cold War conflicts waged by the United States against what was believed to be the global communist of expansion. The author points out that, although the Korean War was a conventional war, the Vietnam War was a guerrilla war fighting an insurgency similar to the current Iraq War. The paper stresses that the difference is that this Middle Eastern war, to a significant extent, is being fueled by religious factors. The author concludes that LBJ and his advisers blundered their way into the wrong war at the wrong time in the wrong place just as Bush has done in Iraq.
From the Paper "By the early nineteen-sixties, the situation had deteriorated to such an extent in Laos and South Vietnam that President Kennedy increased military and economic aid and sent thousands of American military advisers to train the South Vietnamese Army. For these Green Beret advisers, training the South Vietnamese inevitably involved engaging in combat with Viet Cong forces, which resulted in the first significant American casualties of the Vietnam War."
Abstract John Hay, the U.S. Ambassador to London, called the war of 1898 with Spain ?a splendid little war.? His statement, often quoted about the war, indicated his recognition that this war would change the position of the United States in the world and have ramifications for decades to come. This paper shows that the Spanish-AmericanWar often gets little attention in history texts, overpowered by the bigger, longer-lasting wars such as the War Between the States, World War I and World WarII. The fact is that the Spanish-AmericanWar, which included significant action both in the Caribbean, especially Cuba, and the Pacific, especially involving the Philippines, had complex causes and complex long-term ramifications.
From the Paper "The war of 1898 represented a turning point in the United States? international standing. The country acquired its first overseas territories and pushed Spain out of the Western Hemisphere (Rodriguez, 1998). It laid the groundwork for our involvement in World War II, as our growing interests in the Pacific had a profound effect on Japanese action in that arena. Until the Spanish-American war, our influence had been limited to North America. Now we had presence in both major oceans and had contended with other great powers, either by warfare or by maneuvering, and had emerged victorious (Rodriguez, 1998). It was not a challenge to defeat Spain, but the long-term effects of the war dramatically affected history for the following century. The groups who drew us into the war, both in the Caribbean and the Pacific, revolutionary factions in both Cuba and the Philippines, did not fare well. Cuba was liberated from Spain but under profound influence of the Untied States. In the Philippines, the people simply traded one country's domination for another?s."
Tags: Monroe, Doctrine, Manifest, Destiny, Mexican, War, President, McKinley
Abstract This paper describes the war that existed in the Philippines after the Spain's defeat at the hands of the United States during the Spanish-AmericanWar. As a direct result of the war, the Philippines were given to the United States and the Filipino people who originally believed that they were fighting a war for freedom and independence against the Spanish begin to turn against American troops who they view as simply another occupying force. The first part of the paper gives a background to the Filipino insurgency and its main leader, General Emilio Aguinaldo. Aguinaldo's tactics of fighting a guerrilla war against American troops is examined, as well as the effectiveness of these attacks on shocking the American public back home. Feeling betrayed by America who promised the Filipino people freedom after the Spanish were defeated, Aguinaldo embarked on a series of deadly attacks on American soldiers in the Philippines. As a result, American troops responded with equal brutality in their reprisals with very little organized military command holding them back. Diaries are heavily cited in this section of the paper, giving primary sources that tell of how desperate the American soldiers were at the time and how they needed to racially dehumanize the enemy in order to commit such vicious acts of reprisal. The second part of the paper deals with how the American press responded to the war. Numerous newspaper articles and other criticisms of the war are given as examples, some written by the early 20th century's most prominent figures such as Mark Twain. The general point of this section is to show how deeply divided the American public was over the war in the Philippines and how many felt that it would lead to American involvement in other world affairs. A direct parallel is also drawn to the Iraq War in modernity. Finally, the paper ends with a detailed account of how individual soldiers from both sides viewed the conflict. The Filipinos clearly viewed the insurgency as a necessary action in order to preserve their promised independence, while many American soldiers were disgusted and frustrated with why they were in the country to begin with, and often responded violently towards the natives since they began to view them as subhuman. The psychology of warfare is briefly discussed, as soldiers often dehumanize the enemy as a means of justification of their own violent behavior. The end of the insurgency is also discussed, with American troops brutally putting down the rebellion and establishing a tight control over the entire area for decades.
From the Paper "On April 11th, 1898, the President of the United States William McKinley went to Congress and asked the elected body to declare war on Spain for their role in oppression overseas and to accommodate public opinion that was strongly anti-Spanish due to the sinking of the United States battleship Maine only a few months earlier that was blamed on Spanish agents. Congress eventually sanctioned the war, and the Spanish-American war commenced with several battles over Spanish colonies such as Cuba, Puerto Rico, and the Philippines. The war itself was over fairly quickly, as hostilities were ended only a few months after war was officially declared. The involvement in the former Spanish colonies clearly demonstrated that America had shifted to a strong imperialistic attitude when it came to the Western Hemisphere and indeed the world in general, and would be forced to endure all of the benefits and tribulations that came from being an imperialistic power."
Tags: aguinaldo, american, emilio, filipino, history, philippines, spanish, war, wars
Abstract This paper argues that the Americans provoked the Mexican-AmericanWar of 1846 - 1848. The writer details the events leading to the war and then explains why it was the fault of the Americans that the war took place. It examines the impact of the war on the Mexican citizens and the effects of relationships between the two countries until today.
From the Paper "Throughout the history of the nation we have weathered many storms. This latest round with Afghanistan is just one more. In most cases we do not start wars. We are content to live in peace and just oversee the way things go around the globe, however there have been exceptions and the Mexican American War was one of them. While both sides were at fault in that war it was the American side that started the process, which built on both sides until it finally cumulated in a war."
Abstract This presentation covers the Spanish-AmericanWar from all different perspectives. The paper deals with the cause of war and details the actual military engagements in different geographical locations. There is also a brief coverage of the peace treaty, the Filipino insurrection and the geo-political change in the balance of power following the war.
Outline:
1.0 Background History
2.0 Reasons for the War 3.0 The Cuban Struggle for Liberation
4.0 Origin/ Rise of the American Imperialism
5.0 Outbreak of Hostilities and Declaration of War Summary/Conclusion
From the Paper "This paper has described how the Spanish navy and army were destroyed by the superior fighting ability of its troops and by the superiority of its war machine. Spain also had the big handicap of fighting in the Caribbean away from its home base. In any case it was militarily given a sound drubbing. Spain did not get any diplomatic support either as it was an imperialistic power. However though the United States won the war hands down it set itself on the road to imperialism. The concept of manifest destiny has since made the United States into a interventionist power, an image that is not well received in the world."
Abstract American notions of race and civilization greatly influenced U.S. support for the Philippine-AmericanWar that took place from February 1899 to July 1902. The paper shows that many historians argue that Americans supported the Philippine-Americanwar out of a genuine desire to civilize the inferior Filipino race. However, years of isolationist foreign policies coupled with the threat of growing European powers had created widespread anxieties among Americans in the 1890s. The paper argues, therefore, that the the Philippine-AmericanWar actually served as an outlet for American anxieties about U.S. international power by allowing Americans to reaffirm their racial superiority.
From the Paper "America could have easily maintained trade with the islands, but chose instead to seek the annexation of Philippines, which cost America many lives and opened up American economy to foreign financers. Nevertheless, support for the annexation of the Philippines was widespread. Rather than considering more peaceful alternatives to the war, many Americans supported the attempt to emulate the "policy of expansions which [had] been pursued in England" in order to achieve an even greater amount of international power than their European allies.
Americans were also able to calm their insecurities, which had fostered avid support of the war, by proclaiming that the U.S. had a divine responsibility to tame the barbarian Filipinos. Americans asserted their racial greatness by complaining of the white man's burden as a divine nation to ?uplift and civilize and Christianize the Filipinos.?"
Tags: Theodore, Roosevelt, William, McKinley, Far, East
Abstract The paper interprets and explains the significance of the Mexican-AmericanWar. The paper discusses its importance for the Chicano/Latino community as well as the larger Californian and American societies. The paper briefly examines the background and causes of the war and then analyzes its aftermath and significance.
Outline:
Background of the War and its Causes
Aftermath & Significance of the War for the American & Californian Societies
From the Paper "In order to understand fully the significance of the Mexican-American War, it is important to briefly examine its background and causes. Much before the start of its war with Mexico, the Americans were infused with the concept of Manifest Destiny : the view that the United States had a God-given mandate to expand its territories in the West in order to spread the American ideals of freedom and democracy to the supposedly inferior and uncivilized peoples of the Continent (Decebal, n.d.)."
Tags: Manifest, Destiny, Chicano, Latino, community
This paper examines the Spanish AmericanWar from the perspective of two different writers, John Offor's ?Why Did the United States Fight Spain in 1898?? and Lewis Gould's "The Spanish AmericanWar and President McKinley".
Abstract This paper explains that both authors agree victory in the Spanish AmericanWar resulted in the image of the United States as a nation with global interests, acquiring Guam, Puerto Rico, and the Philippine Islands from Spain, and giving Cuba independence. The author stresses that Gould saw McKinley as a purposive and effective executive, but Offor described the president as a tentative man who did not want to go to war, but was pressured by the public to do so. The paper points out that McKinley, the first modern president, assumed a new role during this war, as McKinley led the nation's military effort, functioning directly as commander in chief, which had never been done before.
From the Paper "Thus, North American investment, particularly in plantations, mills, and mines, increased significantly in Cuba. By 1895, North American businessmen had invested up to 50 million dollars in Cuba, and by 1893, commerce exceeded 100 million dollars. According to Offor, ?For the United States, Cuba was an important market for industrial goods and a source of raw sugar, tobacco, and various minerals; for Cuba, the United States was the essential importer of over 90 percent of sugar produced on the island ?. Still, many North Americans were prejudiced against Spaniards and Cubans. The public viewed Spain as degenerate, with Catholic inquisition cruelties, a corrupt monarchy, and a backward economy. This view led to somewhat of a feeling of superiority."
Abstract This paper examines the sociological history of Mexican Americans from the annexation of Mexico after the Mexican AmericanWar to the present. It analyzes the personal accounts of three Mexican Americans from different time periods, and describes the discrimination Mexican Americans have faced throughout their history. The author states that Mexican Americans have been a valuable asset to American society.
From the Paper "From the time of the annexation of Mexico by the United States until the present day, Mexican Americans have faced severe hardship and discrimination, but their presence in the United States has resulted in a largely positive impact on both the lives of these individuals and the nation as a whole. Many of these individuals came to the United States in search of a better, more prosperous way of life, and a large number of them succeeded in this. At the same time, they have added to the economy and cultural diversity of the United States. The narratives of three typical Mexican Americans living in different time periods, Jes's Garza, Camelia Palafox, and Mar"a Jim"nez show the obstacles typical Mexican Americans have faced and what reward they have received."
Tags: illegal, immigration, international, labor, mexico, migrant, nafta, relations, war
Abstract This short paper examines the societies in England and the American colonies in the period before the American Revolutionary War (1775-1783). It provides a brief examination from an historical and sociological perspective of the causes and the circumstances surrounding the conflict. It also cites specific legislation passed by the British Parliament as leading to the outbreak of hostilities known as the AmericanWar of Independence.
From the Paper "The British Empire had been expanding since the late 16th century, which brought much wealth to the country as well as "luxury" items such as sugar and coffee (from the East Indies), tea from India, and slaves from Africa. An agricultural revolution had started that was a precursor of the Industrial Revolution and urbanization. The increasing wealth had also widened the gap between the rich and the poor and the introduction of mechanized agriculture had forced many rural workers to the cities. The population of Britain reached 5.7 million by 1750 and this time it was sustained and poised to grow further by the greater food production made possible by the Agricultural Revolution. Although it was a time of upheaval throughout Europe, the British society remained relatively calm in part due to the increasing wealth and memories of its damaging Civil War in the 17th century. ("History of British Society," 2006)"
Tags: colonial, America, Revolutionary, War, England
Abstract This paper looks at the Spanish-AmericanWar of 1898 and examines two enduring legacies, a restructuring of U.S. naval power and a realignment of the U.S. position towards its neighbors in Latin America. It also provides a background to the breakout of the war.
From the Paper "The story is nearly as famous as those wooden teeth of George Washington's although this one ? being nearer to us in time ? is probably less embellished. It is hard to imagine that anyone growing up in the United States has not heard at one point or another about the Rough Riders ? actually the 1st Volunteer Cavalry in the Spanish-American War, a regiment recruited by Theodore Roosevelt and composed of cowboys, miners, law-enforcement officials, and college athletes. Their colorful and often unorthodox exploits received extensive publicity in the U.S. press, especially after Colonel Leonard Wood resigned as White House physician to command the regiment (Cosmas, 1998, p. 37)."
Tags: regiment, Rough, Riders, San, Juan, Hill, Cuba, Latin, America, Havana, USS, Maine
Abstract The paper describes the events leading up to the Americanwar of independence citing "taxation without representation" as the main factor together with the Naval Act of 1696, the Sugar Act and Currency Act of 1764 and The Stamp Act of 1765. The paper then describes the start of the war in Lexington, Massachusetts fought by armed militia against the British and how volunteers organized to create the Continental Army under George Washington. The tactics used in the war are discussed and various victories and defeats are mentioned.
From the Paper "Tactics of the War of Independence comprised mostly linear formations: troops formed lines along the battlefield and operated in unison. The limitations of the non-rifled muskets led to volley shooting tactics. Men standing shoulder to shoulder in units two to three lines deep would shoot at enemy ranks. The goal was initially to break up and scatter the enemy so that charging with the bayonet became possible."
Abstract The seeds of eventual American independence were sown long before the event actually took place. This paper shows that a series of events and acts of the British themselves, including their military generals, the King and the British Parliament ensured their own defeat rather than the Americans having had to win it. This essay examines the political, social, and economic reasons behind Britain's defeat.
From the Paper "Economics was not the only reason behind the promulgation of the Stamp Act. The British Parliament also wanted to assert its sovereignty over its American colonies by the Act. It was a politically unwise step since the Americans felt that they were not represented in the British Parliament; hence it had no right to tax them under the philosophy of ?no taxation without representation.? The Parliament further exacerbated the situation when instead of compromising, introduced further punitive measures, including a wider range of custom duties in 1767."
Tags: Navigation, Act, Seven, Year, War, Stamp, King, George, III
Abstract This paper explains that the Mexican-Americanwar pointed out the wide differences between two very opposing societies. Whereas the American nation represented a new emerging society in which the norms and the rules were inspired by an old system of laws and democratic beliefs, the author relates, the society of the Mexican nation still showed signs of the rule of the Spanish colonial system upon which this country was based. The roles played by minority groups in the armies of the United States and Mexico, the paper emphasizes, are important because they shed light on the way in which these groups were treated and on their influence on the outcome of history.
From the Paper "The issue of race and class distinction during the Mexican war must be seen from the perspective of the political and economic situation in the region. Therefore, the American government was encouraging the emigration in Texas as a means of establishing a more comprehensive grip on the area, while the Mexican government tried to limit and even restrict it. Thus, it is clear that the American side used the issue of the population as a means to increase its influence in Texas, while the Mexicans used their authoritarian grip on the society and on the rules as a means of reducing the freedom of movement between the two regions."
