You will write an essay that explores the given topic, one of the two
listed below. It should be a complete essay, including an introduction, a conclusion, and
evidence paragraphs, in the traditional 5 or 6 paragraph format. Because you will have access
to your notes, I will be expecting clear and specific examples from class to support your ideas. It MUST use the book attached to write and intext citation.
A) Even after becoming an independent country, the development of the United States was
heavily influenced by external powers including England, France, Mexico, and, of course, Native
Americans. What were the ways those groups influenced US activities, and how did the
Americans respond?
B) What do you believe was the United States major Foreign Policy goal during the period from
its independence to the Civil War? What did Americans prioritize? What did they hope to
achieve? How did they go about achieving it? What other goals do you think they also had? In
your opinion, why was the goal you chose the most important to Americans?