When the United States began its imperialistic expansion in the late 1800s, it did so with a number of motives in mind. These motives included the desire for new markets and new sources of raw materials, the belief that it was the nation's destiny to expand across the continent, and the belief that American civilization was superior to that of other cultures. These same motives were applied to the acquisition of Alaska and Hawaii.
The desire for new markets was a major factor in the decision to annex Alaska. At the time, Alaska was a Russian territory, and the United States saw it as a potential market for American goods. The United States also believed that Alaska could be used as a launching point for expansion into Asia. The desire for new sources of raw materials was another factor in the decision to annex Alaska. The United States hoped to gain access to Alaska's timber and minerals, which could be used to fuel the American economy.
The belief that it was the nation's destiny to expand across the continent was also a factor in the decision to annex Alaska. The United States had already expanded across the North American continent, and many Americans believed that it was the nation's destiny to continue its expansion. The belief that American civilization was superior to that of other cultures was also a factor in the decision to annex Alaska. The United States believed that it could bring civilization to Alaska and improve the lives of the native population.
All of these factors played a role in the decision to annex Alaska. The United States saw Alaska as a potential market, a source of raw materials, and a place to expand its civilization. These same motives were applied to the acquisition of Hawaii.