The Complex Web of Alliances: The Key Influence in the Build-Up to World War I

WRITING ASSIGNMENT 2

SECTIONS 3-4

      Details: In 300-500 words develop a written argument and historical explanation for any of the following essential questions found in your course notes for weeks 3-4. In order to receive full credit for the assignment, the answer in your essay should include at least one example from each of the following sources:

-          An example from our in-class lectures and discussions. (This can be a video link shared in class or a topic explained by the instructor. 

-          An example from your assigned readings (in parenthesis list the text author and page number).

-          A topic or term covered in your course notes or embedded powerpoint links, supplemented by your own independent research. (If using an outside resource make sure to list all of your references at the bottom of your submission).

-          An open-ended question that speculates at an alternative historical outcome, had the featured event or individual turned out or acted differently.

Students are welcome to choose any of the following questions to answer and explain:

1. What factors inspired European powers to extend their colonization to Africa and Asia? What about Japanese and Chinese markets changed after they were forcibly “opened” to trade? What were the consequences that came with the “scramble for Africa”?
2. What was Simon Bolivar’s vision for “Pan-Americanism”? What was different about the formation of the states of Latin America compared with the United States and Canada? How did the Western Hemisphere fall into America’s sphere of influence?
3. Describe the opponents of Imperialism and writers disenfranchised by its doctrine? Understand the Imperial mission and how it contrasts against the arguments for democracy and liberty abroad.
4. What was the most important historical influence that led to the build-up for the First World War? Explain and contrast it against other contributing causes discussed.
5. At one point in time the British Empire was the most powerful nation on Earth. It spanned the globe and accounted for nearly 1/4 of the world’s population. Based on the examples discussed in class, describe at least one British colony’s efforts to break away to form an independent nation.
6. What was the most important historical influence that led to the build-up for the First World War? Explain and contrast it against other contributing causes discussed.
7. What factors in Germany following the end of World War I, helped to bring about the rise of the Nazi Party in the early 1930s? How is it that a modern-industrial society under the direction of Adolph Hitler was capable of committing such horrors?
8. Today there exists a small but vocal minority of Holocaust deniers. Additionally, the world has borne witness to a number of genocides since World War II. How can these deniers be silenced? Do you believe stronger awareness and education on the Holocaust’s lessons can help ensure “Never Again,” can become a reality?
9. How did the Treaty of Versailles directly contribute to World War II? What other 20th Century conflicts can be traced to the failure at Versailles?