The Spanish-American War: America's Path to Global Power - History Reading Comprehension Worksheet

Immerse your students in one of the most pivotal moments in U.S. history with this comprehensive reading comprehension worksheet on the Spanish-American War. This resource explores the complex motivations behind U.S. involvement in Cuba and the Philippines, the rise of American imperialism, and the lasting consequences of the war. Students will analyze primary sources, evaluate ethical dilemmas, and understand the broader historical context of this pivotal era.

In this worksheet, your students will:

• Examine the U.S. invasion of Cuba and the controversial Platt Amendment.
• Explore U.S. imperialism in the Philippines and the brutal Philippine-American War.
• Analyze primary sources to understand the disillusionment felt by Cuban and Filipino revolutionaries.
• Reflect on the broader consequences of U.S. imperialism in Latin America and the Pacific.

What's Included:

• Multiple-choice questions to assess understanding of key events and motivations.
• Matching activities to reinforce critical terms and figures.
• Fill-in-the-blank exercises to review essential information.
• Short-answer questions to encourage deeper reflection on the consequences of U.S. intervention.
• Primary source analysis of a Cuban revolutionary's letter, helping students grasp the complex emotions surrounding U.S. occupation.

This resource is perfect for in-depth learning, making it ideal for class discussions, homework, or even substitute lesson plans. It encourages students to engage critically with history, understanding both the events and the broader themes of imperialism and foreign intervention.

Learning Objectives:

• Understand the Spanish-American War as a turning point in U.S. history.
• Analyze the motivations behind U.S. intervention in Cuba and the Philippines.
• Explore the ethical dilemmas of American imperialism.
• Develop critical thinking through primary source analysis and reflection on media and public opinion.

Common Core Standards:

• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RH.9-10.1: Cite specific textual evidence to support analysis of primary and secondary sources.
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RH.9-10.2: Determine the central ideas of a source and provide an accurate summary.
• CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.WHST.9-10.9: Draw evidence from informational texts to support analysis, reflection, and research.

Courses This Resource Is Perfect For:

• U.S. History (High School)
• AP U.S. History
• World History (Grades 9-12)
• Social Studies (Grades 9-12)

This worksheet offers deeper learning for students who want to explore the complexities of U.S. foreign policy and imperialism. It's an ideal substitute lesson plan that promotes thoughtful reflection and discussion.

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