What is the "most important" reason the united states expanded its territory in asia in the late 1800s?
a. to protect its political interests
b. to spread democracy
c. to protect and expand its trade
d. to spread christianity
i know it isn't a, can someone

The most popular reason behind the United States' maritime drive across the Pacific in the 19th century was to create trade outposts and then to protect and expand the footholds. That means that the "most important" reason the United States expanded its territory in Asia in the late 1800s was to protect and expand its trade.

Where are the following ?