1. During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the United States pursued a policy of expanding its influence overseas through military and political means. This expansionist policy became known as: A. Imperialism B. Isolationism C. Manifest Destiny D. Neutrality Answer: A. Imperialism Rationale: Imperialism refers to a country's policy of extending its power and influence through colonization, military conquest, or economic domination. During this time period, the United States pursued an imperialist policy in areas such as the Caribbean, Central America, and the Pacific. 2. The Spanish-American War of 1898 was largely prompted by: A. Spanish aggression against American territories in the Pacific B. American support for Cuban independence from Spain C. The sinking of the USS Maine in Havana harbor D. The desire for new territories and markets in Latin America Answer: C. The sinking of the USS Maine in Havana harbor Rationale: The sinking of the USS Maine, an American battleship, in Havana harbor in February 1898 was a catalyst for the Sp