Question

2. What were the motivations for American expansion in the Pacific?

Answer 1

The westward expansion of the United States during the 19th century was not limited to North America, but rather included an ongoing push to establish a stronger U.S. presence in and across the Pacific Ocean. This maritime expansion, driven mostly by commerce, had important implications for U.S. foreign policy.

Answer 2

Thus, by the mid-1850s, private, economic interests in trading and excavating natural resources became the primary motivation for U.S. movement into the Pacific Ocean.