Frederick Merk, Manifest Destiny and Mission and David Healy, US Expansionism

Questions for Frederick Merk, Manifest Destiny and Mission (read chapters 2-10 and 12):


1) What did Americans in the 1840's mean by the phrase “Manifest Destiny”? Did it mean different things to different people or political parties? Did it mean different things at different times during this decade?

2) How powerful an engine was the idea of Manifest Destiny in driving American foreign policy during the 1840's? If it was strong, why did not the United States annex all of Mexico when it could have? If it was weak, why was there a Mexican War at all?

3) Merk discusses public opinion a great deal in his book. What is his view of the scope and importance of public opinion in forming U.S. foreign policy? Do you agree?


Questions for David Healy, US Expansionism:


Invent a hypothetical American who was alive in 1898-99. Sketch her or his background briefly. Include important details such as his or her birthdate, occupation, and political outlook. Then describe why she or he would favor or oppose the war against Spain and subsequent acquisition of territory and annexation of the Philippines. (If you choose this question, writing in first person is fine, although you need not do so.)