Question

which of the following statements best characterizes u.s. imperialism at the beginning of the 20th century?
the u.s. took an isolationist policy and believed that they had no business in the affairs of other countries.
the u.s. respected the independence of all countries and only sought to help with humanitarian aid
the u.s.s policy was to be a good neighbor and only provided help when asked
with the closing of the frontier and the desire to spread american ideals to other countries, the u.s. believed that the path to international power was to acquire territories abroad

Explanation:

To determine the correct answer, we analyze each option:

• The first option is incorrect because U.S. imperialism in the early 20th century was not isolationist; the U.S. was expanding its influence.
• The second option is incorrect as U.S. imperialism involved more than just humanitarian aid; it had economic and territorial motives.
• The third option is incorrect. The "good neighbor" policy was associated with a later period (FDR's era) and not the beginning of the 20th century.
• The fourth option is correct. At the start of the 20th century, with the frontier closed, the U.S. sought international power by acquiring territories abroad and spreading American ideals, which aligns with the concept of U.S. imperialism during that time (e.g., annexation of Hawaii, involvement in the Philippines, etc.).

Answer:

D. With the closing of the frontier and the desire to spread American ideals to other countries, the U.S. believed that the path to international power was to acquire territories abroad