To determine which of the statements most directly reflects the popular beliefs of the early twentieth century in relation to the image from 1906, we can analyze the historical context of that period.
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The United States should refuse to colonize other countries because colonization went against popular sovereignty.
This statement aligns with anti-imperialism, which was a belief held by some, but not a dominant sentiment in the early twentieth century. -
The United States had a duty to spread Christianity to countries in Asia and Latin America.
This reflects the missionary zeal common in that era, but again, it may not encompass the broader motivations for U.S. foreign policy. -
The United States was responsible for protecting Latin America from European interference and colonization.
This aligns with the Monroe Doctrine and later interpretations, particularly during the era of imperialism, where the U.S. positioned itself as a protector of Latin American nations. -
The United States needed to increase the size of its Navy to become a legitimate world power.
This reflects the naval expansion advocated by figures like Alfred Thayer Mahan and the general sentiment of the U.S. as it sought to expand its influence as a global power.
Considering the context of the early twentieth century, the most appropriate response is likely "The United States was responsible for protecting Latin America from European interference and colonization." This belief underpinned many U.S. policies at the time, particularly the Roosevelt Corollary to the Monroe Doctrine, which justified U.S. intervention in Latin America.
1 answer