Question

“whether they will or not, americans must now begin to look outward. the growing production of the country demands it. the position of the united states, between the old world and the two great oceans, makes the claim, which will soon be strengthened by the creation of a new link joining the atlantic and the pacific, by the advancing civilization of japan, and by the rapid peopling of our pacific states.” -alfred t. mahan, “the united states looking outward,” atlantic monthly, 1890

1. according to the quote, why should americans look outward?
2. what is the “new link” that joins the atlantic and pacific?
3. what is meant by the “growing production of the country demands it?”
4. who in america would benefit from new markets? why?
5. what were the circumstances that led japan to become an “advancing civilization?”

in 1867 us secretary of state william seward arranged to purchase alaska for $7.2 million from russia. seward was ridiculed for the purchase and alaska was dubbed “seward’s icebox” as many believed that nothing existed there except polar bears.

1. according to the cartoonist, what is found in alaska?

Explanation:

1. The growing production of the US demands access to new markets and trade routes. The country's position between two oceans also makes it strategically important to engage globally.
2. Likely refers to the planned or proposed canal (such as the Panama Canal) that would connect the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, facilitating easier trade and movement.
3. As the US economy grew in terms of production, it needed more markets to sell goods and access to resources. This required expansion and engagement with the outside world.
4. Business - owners and industrialists would benefit as new markets would provide more opportunities for profit through selling goods and accessing raw materials.
5. Japan underwent the Meiji Restoration in 1868, which led to modernization in areas like industry, military, and education, transforming it into an "advancing civilization". For the cartoon question, according to the cartoonist, polar bears are found in Alaska as it was seen as a cold, barren place.

Answer:

1. Due to growing production and strategic position.
2. A canal (like the Panama Canal).
3. Need for more markets and resources for growing economy.
4. Business - owners and industrialists for profit - making opportunities.
5. The Meiji Restoration led to modernization. Cartoon: Polar bears.