What motivated the United States to embrace imperialism during the late 19th and early 20th centuries?

Economic, exploratory, ethnocentric, political, and religious motives

Explanation:

"American imperialism" is a term that refers to the economic, military, and cultural influence of the United States on other countries. First popularized during the presidency of James K. Polk, the concept of an "American Empire" was made a reality throughout the latter half of the 1800s.

Various motives prompt empires to seek to expand their rule over other countries or territories. These include economic, exploratory, ethnocentric, political, and religious motives. Imperial powers often competed with each over for the best potential resources, markets, and trade.

In the late nineteenth century, the United States abandoned its century-long commitment to isolationism and became an imperial power.

Both a desire for new markets for its industrial products and a belief in the racial and cultural superiority of Americans motivated the United States' imperial mission.