Topic 7.5 DBQ Practice - (open to see description)

Prompt:
Evaluate the extent to which World War I changed global territorial control between 1918 and 1939.

Task Instructions:
•    Develop a thesis 
•    Use all 7 documents 
•    Include outside evidence 
•    Explain sourcing for at least 2 documents 

Document 1
•    Type: Political Speech 
•    Author: Woodrow Wilson 
•    Date: 1918 

“We believe that all peoples have the right to determine their own destiny, and that no nation should impose its will upon another without consent. The peace we seek must be founded upon justice and respect for the rights of nations, large and small alike. Only through such principles can lasting stability be achieved. Yet this vision requires the cooperation of all powers and a commitment to fairness that transcends narrow interests.”

Historical Situation: Wilson’s Fourteen Points after WWI.
Perspective/Limitation: Idealistic; inconsistently applied.
Use in Argument: Shows push for change.

Document 2
•    Type: League of Nations Report 
•    Author: League Mandates Commission 
•    Date: 1922 

“The territories formerly under Ottoman control are to be administered by advanced nations until such time as they are capable of self-governance. These mandates are not to be considered colonies, but rather a sacred trust of civilization. The administering powers are responsible for guiding political and economic development, ensuring stability and progress in regions that have yet to achieve full independence.”

Historical Situation: Creation of mandate system.
Perspective/Limitation: Justifies imperial control.
Use in Argument: Shows continuity of imperialism.

Document 3
•    Type: Nationalist Speech 
•    Author: Egyptian nationalist leader 
•    Date: 1920 

“We are told that foreign rule exists for our benefit, yet we see our resources controlled and our voices silenced. The promise of self-determination rings hollow when applied only to certain nations. We demand the same rights that have been granted elsewhere. Independence is not a privilege but a right, and we shall not cease in our efforts to achieve it.”

Historical Situation: Egyptian resistance to British control.
Perspective/Limitation: Anti-imperial; focused on local struggle.
Use in Argument: Shows resistance.

Document 4
•    Type: Treaty Excerpt 
•    Author: Treaty of Versailles 
•    Date: 1919 

“Germany renounces in favor of the Principal Allied Powers all its rights and titles over its overseas possessions. These territories shall be administered under the supervision of the League of Nations, with the objective of ensuring their development and eventual self-governance. The distribution of these territories shall be determined by the Allied Powers.”

Historical Situation: Redistribution of German colonies.
Perspective/Limitation: Reflects victor control.
Use in Argument: Shows territorial change.

Document 5
•    Type: Government Statement 
•    Author: Japanese official 
•    Date: 1921 

“The acquisition of former German territories in the Pacific represents not only a strategic necessity but a recognition of Japan’s rightful place among the great powers. Our presence in these regions will bring stability and development, ensuring that they are not left vulnerable to disorder. As a nation that has embraced modernization, we are well-positioned to fulfill this responsibility.”

Historical Situation: Japanese expansion after WWI.
Perspective/Limitation: Justifies imperialism.
Use in Argument: Shows non-Western imperialism.

Document 6
•    Type: Letter 
•    Author: Indian nationalist 
•    Date: 1930 

“The promises made during the war have not been fulfilled. We were told that our loyalty would be rewarded, yet we remain under foreign rule. The continued presence of imperial authority undermines any claim that this system is just. Our struggle is not only for independence but for dignity and recognition as equals.”

Historical Situation: Indian independence movement.
Perspective/Limitation: Anti-colonial perspective.
Use in Argument: Shows growing resistance.

Document 7
•    Type: European Diplomatic Memo 
•    Author: British official 
•    Date: 1925 

“The maintenance of order in our overseas territories remains essential to both economic stability and international prestige. While there is increasing agitation among certain populations, it is imperative that governance remain firm. Gradual reforms may be considered, but any rapid withdrawal would risk instability and undermine the benefits that imperial administration provides.”

Historical Situation: British imperial policy.
Perspective/Limitation: Pro-imperial; defensive.
Use in Argument: Shows continuity of control.