What were the major motivations driving American imperialism in the late 19th century?

The major motivations driving American imperialism in the late 19th century were centered around economic expansion and national prestige. This period followed the Civil War, during which the United States emerged as an industrial power with a strong desire to find new markets for its surplus goods. American businesses sought to expand their interests overseas, tapping into the resources and markets of other nations, especially in Asia and the Pacific.

Additionally, the prevailing notion of American exceptionalism contributed to a belief that the United States had a duty to spread its values and way of life, enhancing its global prestige. The competition with European powers, who were also engaged in imperial expansion, motivated the U.S. to assert itself internationally, illustrating the desire for national prestige. The acquisition of territories such as Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines after the Spanish-American War underscored this dual drive for economic opportunities and the affirmation of the United States as a world power.

In contrast, focusing on domestic agriculture does not align with the motivations behind imperialism, as this movement was primarily about expansion beyond U.S. borders. While political alliances and treaties were important, they were often secondary to economic interests and the quest for prestige. Additionally, promoting military interventions in Europe was not a central theme of American imperial