Final answer:
The British company likely chose contract negotiations to acquire mining rights over force to maintain good diplomatic ties, adhere to legal protocols, ensure economic efficiency, and comply with international agreements.
Step-by-step explanation:
The British mining company may have chosen to acquire mining rights through contracts rather than by force for several reasons, including diplomatic relations, legal considerations, economic efficiency, and adherence to international agreements. By securing rights through contracts, the British could maintain amicable relations with other nations, which could be beneficial for future trade and politics. This approach followed legal protocols and safeguarded against potential international disputes that could arise from aggressive expansionism. Moreover, securing mining rights contractually could be more economically efficient, avoiding the high costs associated with military force and potential loss of lives. Finally, abiding by international agreements could ensure a peaceful coexistence and foster a positive global image, thus providing stability necessary for uninterrupted international trade and investment opportunities.