Imperialism, Social Darwinism

How did the ideas of imperialism and Social Darwinism shape U.S. actions and policies during the Progressive Era, and what were the consequences for both the United States and the territories it acquired? This lesson and activity examines the background, definitions, and impact of imperialism and Social Darwinism. Students will analyze primary and secondary source documents. They’ll then answer corresponding scaffolding questions. They will answer the final summary question to apply their knowledge.

Included in this resource:

Do Now - Herbert Spencer pro-imperialist primary source quote analysis with scaffolding questions
Understanding Imperialism and Social Darwinism reading passage with scaffolding questions
Pro/Anti-Imperialist Newspaper Front Page creation activity
Activity rubric
Application/Closing/Higher-Order Thinking Assessment: Why did the ideas of imperialism and Social Darwinism lead to significant changes in the United States’ role in the world, and how did these changes impact the people in the territories the U.S. acquired?
Answer key for teachers (suggested)
★ Please make an executive decision whether or not this lesson can be executed with your students based upon the preview file. Thank you!

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