BELLWORK• Today for bellwork,

you will review over the causes/effects of the Spanish-American War.

• Follow the guidelines on the board.

• Focus on both long-term and short-term!

• Use this as review!

Puerto RicoCommonwealth, statehood, or independence?

Puerto Rico after the SpAm War• In 1898, Puerto Rico was invaded and

subsequently became a possession of the United States.

• US General Nelson Miles: “accept with joy the system of Government of the U.S.”

• Foraker Act of 1900 – established a civil government in PR, under control of U.S.

• Jones Act of 1917 – made Puerto Ricans U.S. citizens

• 1948 – FDR & Congress give PR the ability to elect their own governor

• 1952 – officially made PR a U.S. commonwealth

• Commonwealth – organized, but unincorporated, dependent territory.

U.S. Commonwealths• Did you know, the U.S. actually has TWO

commonwealths…..• Puerto Rico and the North Mariana Islands!

Puerto Rico: Commonwealth, Statehood or Independence?

• You will now read more about Puerto Rico and their status as a U.S. Commonwealth.

• As you read…. Highlight and take notes on important events throughout Puerto Rico’s history.

• Ultimately, you will need to form and defend your own opinion……. Should Puerto Rico remain a commonwealth? Granted statehood as the 51st U.S. state? Or, be given complete independence?

Puerto Rico’s capital city – San Juan

REVIEW• How did Puerto Rican citizens respond to America’s

occupation during the Spanish American War?• How did the Treaty of Paris effect Puerto Rico’s

government?• Analyze the advantages/disadvantages of American

colonial rule in Puerto Rico. • What was the Foraker Act?• How did the government of Puerto Rico change post-

WWII?

Puerto Rico’s Status• The class will be divided

into four groups. Each group will represent a different option for the political status of Puerto Rico.

• Your task: Explain the advantages/disadvantages of this form of government

• Current commonwealth

• Enhanced commonwealth

• Statehood• Complete

independence

Roosevelt – A Man of many tradesHunter & environmentalist

Cowboy & NY socialite

Loved individualism in business & fought to stop monopolies