Question

Why were the islands shown on this map most likely acquired or annexed by the United States?

To function as trading ports and naval bases, and to increase U.S. infulence in the Pacific the region
To add states to the nation
To force Hawaii into joining the United States
To serve as military posts for an attack on Russia

Answer 1

The answer is likely A, as we did not begin to enter hostile relations with Russia until the 1900's, and we would have liked increased control in the Pacific

Answer 2

The islands shown on the map were acquired by the United States to function as trading ports and naval bases, and to increase American influence in the Pacific region.

For example, Hawaii was annexed in 1898 by the United States to strengthen the American strategic presence in the Pacific Ocean. The same happened with Guam and the Philippines, obtained after the victory in the war with Spain.

All these islands were acquired with the intention of strengthening the American presence in the Pacific, through the creation of military bases.