Final answer:
France and Spain helped the Americans fight the British for several reasons: competition with Britain for control of North America, hopes of economic gains, and alignment with Enlightenment values.
Step-by-step explanation:
France and Spain helped the Americans fight the British for several reasons.
Firstly, they were competing against Britain for control of North America. Both countries wanted to weaken the British Empire by supporting the American colonies in their fight for independence.
Secondly, they were hoping that the new nation would grow rich and pay them for their assistance. By supporting the Americans, France and Spain saw an opportunity to gain favor with the future United States and potentially secure economic advantages.
Lastly, France and Spain believed in the ideals described in the Declaration of Independence. They sympathized with the American cause for liberty and equality, and saw it as an opportunity to align themselves with the values of the Enlightenment.
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