Topic 12 History Review Flashcards
Define isolationism
A national policy of avoiding involvement in foreign affairs
Isolationism often involves a focus on domestic issues and a reluctance to engage in international conflicts.
Define imperialism
A policy of extending a country’s power and influence through colonization, military force, or other means
Imperialism often leads to the domination of one nation over another.
What is the open door policy?
A diplomatic policy that sought to ensure equal trading rights for all nations in China
This policy was crucial in preventing any single power from monopolizing trade with China.
Define atrocity
An extremely wicked or cruel act, often involving physical violence or injury
Atrocities are often committed during wartime or in situations of conflict.
What is Yellow journalism?
Journalism that exaggerates or fabricates news stories to provoke public interest
Yellow journalism played a significant role in shaping public opinion during the Spanish-American War.
Define the Platt Amendment
A U.S. law that stipulated the conditions for the withdrawal of U.S. troops from Cuba after the Spanish-American War
It allowed the U.S. to intervene in Cuban affairs and established a U.S. naval base at Guantanamo Bay.
What is a protectorate?
A state that is controlled and protected by another
In a protectorate, the protected state retains some degree of autonomy.
Define isthmus
A narrow strip of land connecting two larger land areas
The Isthmus of Panama is a notable example.
What is dollar diplomacy?
A policy that encourages U.S. financial investment in foreign countries to promote American interests
Dollar diplomacy was especially used in Latin America and the Caribbean.
Define moral diplomacy
A foreign policy that promotes the spread of democracy and moral progress
This approach was advocated by President Woodrow Wilson.
What is nationalism?
A strong identification with and pride in one’s nation, often leading to the desire for national independence
Nationalism can lead to both unity and conflict within and between nations.
Define militarism
The belief that a country should maintain a strong military capability and be prepared to use it aggressively
Militarism often influences national policies and can lead to arms races.
What is a terrorist?
A person who uses unlawful violence and intimidation, especially against civilians, in pursuit of political aims
Terrorism can take many forms and has various motivations.
Who were the Central Powers?
A coalition during World War I that included Germany, Austria-Hungary, the Ottoman Empire, and Bulgaria
The Central Powers opposed the Allied Powers.
Who were the Allied Powers?
A coalition during World War I that included France, Britain, Russia, Italy, and the United States
The Allied Powers fought against the Central Powers.
Define trench warfare
A type of combat in which opposing troops fight from trenches facing each other
Trench warfare was a hallmark of World War I, leading to stalemates and heavy casualties.
What does it mean to be neutral?
Not taking sides in a conflict or disagreement
Neutral countries often seek to mediate or provide humanitarian aid.
Define propaganda
Information, especially biased or misleading, used to promote a political cause or point of view
Propaganda is often used in wartime to influence public opinion.
What is a warmonger?
A person who advocates for war or a policy of aggressive military action
Warmongers often push for military intervention in conflicts.
Fill in the blank: The _______ was a law that required men to register for military service.
Selective Service Act
The Selective Service Act was enacted in the U.S. during World War I.
Define bureaucracy
A system of government in which most of the important decisions are made by state officials rather than by elected representatives
Bureaucracy is characterized by hierarchical structures and established rules.
What is a pacifist?
A person who believes that war and violence are unjustifiable and advocates for peaceful resolution of conflicts
Pacifists often promote nonviolent resistance.
Define armistice
An agreement made by opposing sides in a war to stop fighting for a certain time
Armistices are often precursors to peace treaties.
What is the League of Nations?
An intergovernmental organization founded after World War I to promote peace and cooperation among countries
The League of Nations aimed to prevent future wars but ultimately failed to maintain peace.
What was the Treaty of Versailles?
The peace treaty that ended World War I, imposing heavy reparations and territorial losses on Germany
The Treaty of Versailles is often cited as a factor leading to World War II.
Define mandate
An authoritative command or instruction, often referring to a territory administered by a foreign power under the League of Nations’ oversight
Mandates were established after World War I to manage former territories of the Ottoman Empire and Germany.
