Final answer:
Governor Stevens' primary ambition was likely tied to the expansion and development of the Washington Territory, with a key focus on infrastructure such as the railroad to facilitate growth. This aligns with the ethos of the American expansionist period, reflecting the Manifest Destiny ideology.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question pertains to the historical figure Governor Stevens. Governor Isaac Ingalls Stevens led Washington Territory during a time of rapid expansion and development. While the provided reference material doesn't directly answer the question regarding Governor Stevens' priorities, it provides context about the era's attitudes and ambitions, particularly regarding expansion and settlement in the Pacific Northwest. Stevens was known for his desire to expand American territory, as seen through his involvement with Native American treaties and his advocacy for infrastructure development.
Based on the expansionist ethos of the time, it's reasonable to infer that Governor Stevens' main objective was likely related to the growth and development of the territory over personal ambitions such as wealth or political office. One of his top goals would align with the American push for expansion and settlement in the West. This goal would not only bolster the territory's economic growth but also strengthen the U.S. claims to the region, in line with the Manifest Destiny ideology.
Since a railway would significantly contribute to the territorial development by facilitating movement of people and goods, it can be postulated that Governor Stevens wanted more than anything for the railroad to come to Washington, thereby promoting territorial growth and integration with the rest of the United States.