One perspective was that expansion of U.S. territory was necessary for economic growth and national security. Proponents argued that acquiring new territories would provide new markets for American goods and resources for American industries. It was seen as a way to maintain and increase the country's power and influence on the global stage. On the other hand, opponents believed that expansion was imperialistic and went against American values of self-determination and non-intervention. They argued that it was wrong to force American ideals on other cultures and that the focus should be on domestic issues rather than expanding overseas.
