Interactive exercise. Assistance may be required. Many times in studying U.S. history, you may see the term "world power." What do you think that term means? What are the characteristics of power? Scroll over the images below to see a few examples.

A world power can have one or more of these attributes. The United States has been a leader in the world in various capacities throughout its history. Since its initial fight for liberty, the United States has been a symbol of strength and leadership. After years of neutrality and isolationism, the United States emerged as a world power in 1898 after defeating the Spanish in the Spanish-American War and acquiring territory in various parts of the world.

Charge up San Juan Hill This painting depicts the Battle of San Juan Hill. The Rough Riders, including Theodore Roosevelt, are charging up a hill. Some men are on foot and others on horseback. The painting depicts the fallen Cubans as well as fallen Rough Riders.

Source: Charge of the Rough Riders, Frederic Remington, Frederic Remington Art Museum

Today, the United States is still considered a world power. The United States is one of the wealthiest nations in the world. The U.S. Armed Forces has one of the most advanced militaries in the world. Politically and economically, the United States has influence over many other nations. In this lesson, you will read about events in U.S. history that have occurred since the 1970s. You will examine the role played by the United States in each event to determine if it helped reinforce its position as a world power.