Directions:
Write a well-organized essay that includes an introduction, several paragraphs
addressing the task below, and a conclusion.
Geographic factors often influence United States government actions, both
foreign and domestic. Some of these factors include location, physical
environment, movement of people, climate, and resources.
Task:
Identify two actions taken by the United States government that were influenced
by geographic factors, and for each action:
• Discuss the historical circumstances that resulted in the government action
• Discuss the influence of a geographic factor on the action
• Describe the impact of the government action on the United States
From your study of United States history, you may use any federal government action that was influenced by geography. Some suggestions you might wish to consider include the Louisiana Purchase (1803), issuance of the Monroe Doctrine (1823), passage of the Homestead Act (1862), decision to build the transcontinental railroad (1860s), acquisition of the Philippines (1898), decision to build the Panama Canal (early 1900s), and passage of the Interstate Highway Act (1956). You are not limited to these suggestions.
Guidelines:
In your essay, be sure to
• Address all aspects of the Task
• Support the theme with relevant facts, examples, and details
• Use a logical and clear plan of organization
• Introduce the theme by establishing a framework that is beyond a simple restatement of the Task and conclude with a summation of the Theme
