Affirmative Argument.
Introduction.—How small and hemmed in by powerful countries the United States would have been if no annexations had ever been made. To annex Cuba would be no new policy.
Discussion. Argument First.—Favorable location of Cuba and commercial value to the United States.
Argument Second.—The great riches and beauty of the Island, which make it very desirable.
Argument Third.—Advantages to the people of Cuba themselves, in belonging to a great and free nation.
Conclusion.—All previous annexations had to encounter strong opposition when first proposed, but are now acknowledged to have been good policy. So, if Cuba is brought under our flag, opposition will die out and all parties be glad of the result.
Negative Argument.
Introduction.—Plausible but inconclusive nature of the argument advanced on the other side. Previous annexations may not have been good, though opposition ceased when it could avail nothing. Even if all former annexations were beneficial this might not be, as all attending circumstances are so widely different.
Discussion. Argument First.—The nation has already as much territory as can be well governed. An increase would lead to grave dangers.
Argument Second.—The people of Cuba are different in language, race, and religion from the majority of the people of the United States; have different customs, and are unacquainted with the working of our institutions. They could not therefore be transformed easily into good citizens.