Final answer:
The acquisition of Alaska and Hawaii provided the United States with strategic military advantages, control of important maritime routes, and an extended international presence, alongside economic gains especially through the Hawaiian sugar industry.
Step-by-step explanation:
The acquisition of Alaska and Hawaii provided significant benefits for the United States in various aspects. The purchase of Alaska, initially seen as "Seward's Folly," turned out to be a strategic boon by providing access to vast natural resources and enhancing national security. Likewise, the annexation of Hawaii during the Spanish-American War was driven by its strategic location in the Pacific and its flourishing sugar industry, which was vital to American business interests.
The Hawaiian Islands served as a crucial military base, particularly at Pearl Harbor, giving the US a commanding presence in the Pacific region. Both territories eventually became US states, contributing to the economic and political landscape of the country. Strategic military locations, control of maritime routes, and international presence were among the key advantages the US gained from these acquisitions.
Moreover, the possession of these territories allowed the US to exert influence in international affairs, reflecting a broader trend of American imperialism in the late 19th century. While these benefits were clear in terms of military and economic interests, they also brought questions regarding the extension of democracy and self-governance to U.S. territories.