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1. Explain why the AntiImperialist League was unhappy with the outcome of the SpanishAmerican War.

2. Describe the effects of the Teller Amendment.


3. Explain how the Phillipines are involved with the United States today.


4. Describe Puerto Rico’s challenges and benefits from being a commonwealth of the United States.

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Answer & Explanation:

The Anti-Imperialist League was unhappy with the outcome of the Spanish-American War because they believed that the United States, in taking control of territories like the Philippines, Puerto Rico, and Guam, was engaging in imperialist practices which went against the country's principles of self-determination and independence. They feared the expansion of the US would lead to exploitation of the local people and suppression of their rights. The League also opposed the annexation of the Philippines as they saw it as a violation of the consent of the governed.

The Teller Amendment, introduced by Senator Henry M. Teller in 1898, was a stipulation that declared the United States had no intention of annexing Cuba following the Spanish-American War. It also pledged to leave the control of the island to its people once peace was restored. The effects of the Teller Amendment were significant as it prevented the United States from establishing direct political control over Cuba, though the Platt Amendment later circumvented this by allowing the US to maintain significant influence over Cuban affairs.

Today, the Philippines is involved with the United States through a variety of diplomatic, economic, and military relationships. The two countries have a Mutual Defense Treaty, which ensures that both nations would assist each other in case of an armed attack. They also engage in joint military exercises and share trade partnerships. The United States provides significant development assistance to the Philippines, and many Filipinos work and study in the US.

Puerto Rico, as a commonwealth of the United States, faces unique challenges and benefits. The island's residents receive some benefits of US citizenship, such as access to federal programs and the ability to travel freely between the territory and the mainland. However, they do not have full representation in the US Congress and cannot vote in presidential elections. Puerto Rico also faces economic challenges, including a high poverty rate and a growing debt crisis. Nevertheless, the commonwealth status provides Puerto Rico with crucial federal support and resources, and its residents enjoy a degree of political autonomy in managing their internal affairs.

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