1. Economic Interests:
The Philippines had valuable resources such as timber, sugar, hemp, and minerals. The United States wanted to control these resources and exploit them for its own economic benefit.
2. Strategic Location:
The Philippines is located in a strategic location in the Pacific Ocean. Controlling the Philippines would give the United States a strategic advantage in the region, allowing it to project power and influence in the Asia-Pacific.
3. Desire for Prestige and Power:
Imperialism was seen as a way for the United States to assert its status as a global power. By acquiring colonies, the United States could demonstrate its strength and influence on the world stage.
4. Manifest Destiny:
Some Americans believed that it was their destiny to expand westward and spread American values, institutions, and culture to other parts of the world. The Philippines was seen as an opportunity to fulfill this belief.
5. Humanitarian Motives:
Some Americans genuinely believed that they had a moral obligation to uplift and civilize the people of the Philippines. They believed that American rule would bring progress, education, and democracy to the Philippines.
6. Influence of Navy and Business:
Powerful naval leaders like Admiral George Dewey and businessmen with interests in the Philippines lobbied for annexation of the country. They believed that the U.S. Navy needed a base in the Pacific and that the Philippines offered economic opportunities.