Question

What ideas and interests motivated the u.s. to create an empire?

Answer 1

~no country could prosper without a large fleet of ships engaged in international trade, protected by oversea navy bases

~was urged to take Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and Cuba

~the depression increases the belief that a more aggressive foreign policy was necessary to stimulate American exports

~fierce nationalism was formed and reinforced by the "yellow press"

hope it helps :)