Final answer:
The annexation of the Philippines was driven by economic interests, strategic considerations, and differing views on American ideals and its role in international affairs.
Step-by-step explanation:
The subject of this question is History and it is appropriate for High School level students.
Those who favored annexation of the Philippines, particularly American businesspeople, had several motivators. Firstly, they saw the islands as a valuable trading post for goods from Asia, as well as a place for merchant ships to refuel. Secondly, some supporters believed that the United States would bring democracy to the Philippines. Lastly, others believed that U.S. rule of the islands was necessary to keep European powers out.
Overall, the decision to annex the Philippines and the subsequent debates surrounding it were shaped by economic interests, strategic considerations, and differing views on American ideals and its role in international affairs.