Write a 700-to-1,000-word argument-based essay in response to this prompt:
In 1941, publisher Henry Luce said the twentieth century (1900s) would be remembered as the “American century.” In coining this phrase, Luce suggested not only that the US had a large influence on the world, but that this influence was positive and reflected democratic values. Do you agree with Luce? (Remember he wrote this in 1941.) Does the history of the United States from 1900 to 1945 justify Luce’s argument? In other words, do you think the history of the early 20th century demonstrates both a far-reaching US influence on the wider world and that the influence was positive and democratic? Why or why not?
Hints on how to approach this essay: Look at the video guides on the exam first. State your argument clearly and strongly at the beginning of your essay. Then, support your argument with examples from diverse groups of people in the period from 1900 to 1945. You can’t cover everyone, but do your best to include experiences from a few demographic groups of people. Use your own words for this (relatively) short essay. When crafting your argument-based essay, support your argument using examples from sources you have read and viewed in class. You can use other sources if you wish, but it is not required.
Grading criteria for Essay (11 points total)
- Argument: 4 points
- Does your essay have a clear and specific argument that answers the question?
- Does your argument address all elements mentioned in the prompt? Do you address both the far reach of US influence on the wider world as well as Luce’s point that this US influence was a positive and pro-democratic one?
- Does your argument demonstrate a complex understanding of history by considering various points of view on this topic?
- Evidence: 5 points
- Do you use evidence to defend your argument?
- Is the evidence thorough?
- Do you use a range of evidence — like historians/experts (represented in American Yawp or the OpenStax text and videos) as well as primary sources (words/drawings/photos produced from the 19teens through 1945)?
- Clarity: 2 points
- Does your paper flow clearly?
- Is your writing clear and free of distracting technical errors (such as grammar, spelling, and punctuation)?
- Use your own words and you are encouraged to use informal language, but for an academic purpose. If the essay uses informal language, is it blended intentionally with academic language?