Name and describe at least three key events that led to the increase of U.S. involvement in foreign affairs.

Would the Spanish-American War of 1898, World War 1, and World War 2 be key events? My textbook also mentions the Cold War.

Yes, all of those are key events.

Yes, the Spanish-American War of 1898, World War 1, World War 2, and the Cold War were all significant events that led to an increase in U.S. involvement in foreign affairs. Let's take a closer look at each event:

1. Spanish-American War (1898)
The Spanish-American War was a conflict between the United States and Spain, primarily fought in Cuba and the Philippines. It resulted in the U.S. acquiring territories such as Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines. This marked a shift in U.S. foreign policy, as it signaled a move towards imperialism and the desire to influence events beyond its borders.

2. World War 1 (1914-1918)
Although the U.S. initially adopted a policy of neutrality, several key factors eventually led to its entry into World War 1. The sinking of the British passenger ship RMS Lusitania by a German submarine with American civilians on board, as well as the discovery of the Zimmerman Telegram (in which Germany proposed an alliance with Mexico against the U.S.), provoked public outrage. Consequently, the U.S. joined the war effort on the side of the Allies, which increased its role in global affairs and established it as a major world power.

3. World War 2 (1939-1945)
The attack on Pearl Harbor by the Japanese in December 1941 brought the United States directly into World War 2. This conflict was a turning point for the U.S. in terms of its involvement in international affairs. The U.S. played a crucial role in defeating the Axis powers and in the subsequent reconstruction of Europe and Japan. It also emerged as one of the two superpowers along with the Soviet Union, significantly influencing global politics.

4. The Cold War (1947-1991)
The Cold War was a geopolitical struggle between the United States and the Soviet Union and their respective allies. It was characterized by a competition for global influence, ideological clashes, and the arms race. The U.S. formulated policies such as containment and the Truman Doctrine to prevent the spread of communism. This resulted in extensive diplomatic efforts and military interventions across the globe, including the Korean War, Vietnam War, and various proxy wars in regions like Latin America and Africa.

By examining these events, it becomes clear how they shaped U.S. foreign policies and increased American involvement in global affairs. Remember, while understanding key events is important, it is also essential to analyze the underlying causes, motivations, and long-term consequences to gain a comprehensive understanding of the topic at hand.