Write a paper explaining to what extent the Insular cases inform our treatment of Puerto Ricans as second class citizens

To what extent did the Insular cases inform our treatment of Puerto Ricans as second class citizens? Please answer this essay question essay format, two pages double spaced using 12 inch font times new Roman. Base your answers on the materials provided. Be sure to answer every part of the essay question and to define all terms and concepts. Please elaborate and be specific in each of your answers – i.e., Give examples and site course readings make sure that your essay is well organized and substantiated by the readings provided.

Answer & Explanation

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The Insular Cases refer to a series of Supreme Court decisions made in the early 1900s that dealt with the status of territories acquired by the United States following the Spanish-American War, including Puerto Rico. The Insular Cases established the legal framework for the treatment of residents of these territories, and their impact on Puerto Ricans has been significant. This paper will explore the extent to which the Insular Cases inform our treatment of Puerto Ricans as second-class citizens.

The Insular Cases and their Legacy

The Insular Cases were a set of Supreme Court rulings made between 1901 and 1904 that established the legal framework for how the United States would govern the newly acquired territories. The cases dealt with issues such as citizenship, taxation, and civil rights. The rulings were based on the principle that the Constitution did not necessarily apply in full to these territories, and that Congress had the power to determine how these territories would be governed.

The legacy of the Insular Cases has been significant, particular

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Step-by-step explanation

ly in their impact on Puerto Rico. Because of the Insular Cases, Puerto Ricans do not have the same rights as citizens living in the 50 states. For example, Puerto Ricans cannot vote in presidential elections and do not have voting representation in Congress. This lack of representation has led to Puerto Rico being treated as a second-class citizen in terms of its relationship with the United States.

The treatment of Puerto Ricans as second-class citizens is further reinforced by the unequal treatment they receive in terms of federal funding. For example, Puerto Rico receives less funding for Medicaid and other federal programs than states do, despite having a higher poverty rate. This unequal treatment has led to a number of economic and social problems on the island.

In addition to the impact on Puerto Rico, the legacy of the Insular Cases has also been felt in other territories such as Guam, the US Virgin Islands, and American Samoa. These territories have also been subject to similar restrictions on their political and civil rights.

Moving Forward

While the Insular Cases continue to inform our treatment of Puerto Ricans as second-class citizens, there have been efforts to address this issue. In recent years, there has been growing support for granting statehood to Puerto Rico, which would give Puerto Ricans full citizenship and representation in Congress. However, there are still significant obstacles to achieving statehood, including opposition from some members of Congress and concerns about the impact on the island’s culture and identity.

Conclusion

The Insular Cases have had a significant impact on the treatment of Puerto Ricans as second-class citizens. The rulings established a legal framework that allowed for the unequal treatment of residents of territories such as Puerto Rico. While efforts have been made to address this issue, there are still significant obstacles to achieving full citizenship and representation for Puerto Ricans. It is important that we continue to examine the legacy of the Insular Cases and work towards a more equitable relationship between Puerto Rico and the United States.

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