The United States expanded territorial claims to secure natural resources because of what developments in the late nineteenth century?

Answer 1

The expansion of territorial claims in the United States during the late nineteenth century was driven by various developments, including:

1. Industrialization: Rapid industrial growth created a demand for raw materials to fuel factories and urban development. This led to an interest in acquiring resources such as minerals, timber, and agricultural land.

2. Economic Expansion: The U.S. economy was transitioning from an agrarian to an industrial base, prompting a need for new markets for American goods. This created a push for expansion both domestically (e.g., westward expansion) and internationally.

3. The Closing of the Frontier: By the end of the 19th century, the American frontier was considered closed with the 1890 Census, which led to a sense of urgency to seek new territories beyond the continental U.S. for settlement and resource acquisition.

4. Imperialism: The late 19th century was marked by a global trend of imperialism, with European powers expanding their empires. Many American leaders felt that the U.S. should also expand its influence and territory, leading to the acquisition of overseas territories.

5. Military Strategy and the Influence of Sea Power: Admiral Alfred Thayer Mahan’s ideas on the importance of naval power influenced U.S. policy, suggesting that control of sea routes and coaling stations was essential for national strength. This led to territorial acquisitions like Hawaii and several Pacific islands.

6. The Spanish-American War (1898): This conflict resulted in the United States acquiring territories such as Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines, effectively increasing its reach into the Caribbean and the Pacific, while also providing access to new resources.

7. Cultural Beliefs: Ideas of Manifest Destiny, and a belief in American exceptionalism and superiority, fueled a sense that it was the U.S.'s right and duty to expand its territory and influence across the globe.

These developments combined to foster a climate conducive to increased territorial claims in the pursuit of natural resources.