Question

Which reason best explains the motivation for American expansionism?

A. It would be important to maintain political influence in developing countries.
B. A U.S. naval presence around the world would decrease the chance of future wars.
C. American goods would stimulate local economies throughout the world.
D. New markets for American goods would strengthen the U.S. economy.

Answer 1

D. New markets for American goods would strengthen the U.S. economy.

Economic motives—securing raw materials and new markets for manufactured goods—were a primary driver of late 19th–early 20th century American expansionism.