Question

What was a primary reason the United States became a global power after the Spanish-American War?

Responses

The U.S. established trade with South America.
The U.S. established trade with South America. - no response given

The U.S. acquired significant overseas territories.
The U.S. acquired significant overseas territories. - no response given

The U.S. formed major alliances with Europe.
The U.S. formed major alliances with Europe. - no response given

The U.S. adopted a strict isolationist policy.

Answer 1

The U.S. acquired significant overseas territories.

After the Spanish–American War (1898) the United States gained control of territories like Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines, expanding its overseas presence and power — the main reason it emerged as a global power. The other options are incorrect because the U.S. did not form major European alliances or adopt strict isolationism at that time, and trade with South America was not the primary cause.