In the late 1700s, the main motivation for early American explorers was to

become fur trappers.
find land for White settlement.
find gold and silver.
see the Pacific Ocean.

1 answer

In the late 1700s, the main motivation for early American explorers was to find land for White settlement. While other factors such as the search for gold and silver, fur trading, and exploring the Pacific Ocean were also significant, the desire to expand territory for settlement was a driving force behind many exploration efforts during this period.