What is the most important reason the united states expanded its territory in asia in the late 1800s to protect its political intereststo spread democracyto protect and expand its asian tradeto spread christianity

The most important reason for the United States to expand its territory in Asia in the late 1800s was To protect and expand its Asian trade

Explanation:

The USA had a special interest in getting control over Asian territory, especially the one that was a trail of imports and commerce. In 1898, when the U.S. made its 8,000 mile leap to the Philippines, less than 10% of U.S. trade crossed the Pacific, whereas 60% crossed the Atlantic. China, Korea, and Japan were sources of exotic imports rather than significant exports.

do u have any answer choices?