Final answer:
France and Spain helped the Americans because they were competing with Britain for control of North America, they expected economic benefits from the new nation, and they shared ideals of liberty and equality.
Step-by-step explanation:
France and Spain helped the Americans in their fight against the British for several reasons. Firstly, both countries were competing against Britain for control of North America, and supporting the American Revolution was an opportunity to weaken their rival. Additionally, France and Spain saw the potential for the new American nation to become economically prosperous, and they hoped that the Americans would repay their assistance by trading and engaging in economic activities with them.
Lastly, the ideals described in the Declaration of Independence, such as liberty and equality, resonated with the French Enlightenment philosophers who influenced France's support for the American cause.
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