Which of the following arguments could have been used to support the us acquisition of Puerto Rico Guam and the Philippines
1. Economic benefits: The acquisition of Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines would provide the United States with valuable economic benefits through increased trade and access to resources such as sugar, tobacco, and rubber.
2. Strategic importance: The acquisition of these territories would enhance America's strategic position in the Pacific, protecting the United States from potential threats and ensuring its ability to project power in Asia.
3. Civilizing mission: Annexation would allow the United States to bring its superior system of government, infrastructure, and culture to these regions, promoting democracy and progress while uplifting the native populations.
4. Moral obligation: The United States has a moral obligation to help these territories, which had been previously colonized by Spain, to achieve self-government and independence.
5. National security: The acquisition of these territories would provide the United States with naval bases and coaling stations, which are essential for maintaining a strong navy and protecting American interests abroad.
There are several arguments that could have been used to support the U.S. acquisition of Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines. Here are a few possible arguments:
1. Strategic Importance: One argument could have been that acquiring these territories would provide the United States with strategic advantages in terms of geopolitical positioning. These new territories would serve as stepping stones for the U.S. to exert influence and maintain a military presence in the Pacific and the Caribbean.
2. Economic Opportunities: Another argument could have been that acquiring these territories would open up new markets for American goods and facilitate trade in the region. The United States could have benefited economically from the resources and the potential for investment and commercial expansion in these territories.
3. Civilizing Mission: A common argument used during this time period was the idea of a "civilizing mission." Supporters could have argued that the United States had a duty to bring democracy, education, and Christianity to these territories, thus "civilizing" the local populations.
4. Protection and Security: Supporters might have argued that acquiring these territories would provide a buffer zone and protect American interests from potential foreign aggression. It would also enable the United States to establish naval bases and access to important ports, enhancing national security.
5. Manifest Destiny: The concept of Manifest Destiny, often associated with the expansion of American territory during the 19th century, could have been used to support the acquisition of these territories. Advocates might have argued that it was the destiny and duty of the United States to expand its influence and establish itself as a global power.
It's important to note that these arguments reflect perspectives from the time period when these acquisitions were made and may not necessarily represent contemporary viewpoints.
To determine which arguments could have been used to support the U.S. acquisition of Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines, there are several key factors to consider. These arguments primarily revolve around strategic, economic, and political considerations. Here are some possible arguments that could have been used:
1. Strategic Considerations: One argument in favor of acquiring these territories could have been their strategic importance. Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines would have provided the United States with crucial naval bases in the Pacific and the Caribbean. By possessing these territories, the U.S. could have projected military power effectively and secured its interests in these regions.
2. Economic Considerations: Acquiring Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines would have expanded the U.S. economic influence. These territories had valuable resources such as sugar, minerals, and strategic trade routes. The acquisition could have facilitated trade and boosted American commercial interests in the Asia-Pacific region and the Caribbean.
3. Political Considerations: The argument could have been made that acquiring these territories would bring political stability to the region. By assuming control, the U.S. could have provided stable governance and enforced law and order in these areas. This could have benefited both the local populations and American interests seeking stability in the Pacific and Caribbean regions.
4. Manifest Destiny: The concept of manifest destiny, which advocated for the expansion of American influence, could have been a persuasive argument in support of acquiring these territories. The belief that the United States had a duty to extend its borders and spread democracy and civilization could have been used to justify the acquisition.
It is important to note that these arguments are not meant to endorse or justify the acquisition of Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines, but rather to provide an understanding of the potential arguments that could have been used at that time. The historical context should be considered when examining this topic.