Question

The following statement is taken from a speech on the U.S. Senate by Senator Albert Beveridge: "God has not been preparing the English-speaking and Teutonic peoples for a thousand years for nothing but vain and idle self-contemplation and self-admiration. No, He made us master organizers of the world to establish a system where chaos reigned. He has given us the spirit of progress to overwhelm the forces of reaction throughout the earth. He has made us adept in government that we may administer government among savage and senile peoples. Were it not for such a force as this world would relapse into barbarism and night. And of all our race He has marked the American people as His chosen nation to finally lead in the redemption of the world" What does this statement suggest about how Beverage believes Americans should address the natural resources within our country? Does this statement suggest a special position for Americans as they pursue growth and prosperity? What has been the outcome of this position?

Answer 1

What does this statement suggest about how Beveridge believes Americans should address the natural resources within our country?

Senator Beveridge is a person who believes that progress should be continuous and that it should always be positive. He seems to believe that growth and civilization is necessary, and he most likely gives little thought to social or environmental concerns. Therefore, it is likely that the senator would believe Americans should constantly utilize the resources in their country to create more growth and more expansion.

Does this statement suggest a special position for Americans as they pursue growth and prosperity?

This statement tells us that the senator believes Americans to be chosen by God to lead this unstoppable progress. Therefore, they have a special position when it comes to pursuing growth and prosperity. He also believes Americans to be superior to other races, which he calls "savages."

What has been the outcome of this position?

The most direct outcome of this position has been imperialism. This attitude played an important role in events in American history such as the annexation of the Philippines.