Which explains why countries, including the United States, fought to control island nations in the late 1800s?

A. Nations fought to control the islands to protect the missionaries who were there to spread Christianity.
B. Nations fought to control the islands to use them as supply and refueling stations for ships at sea.
C. Nations fought to control the islands in order to help establish democratic governments around the world.
D. Nations fought to control the islands for their proximity to the Caribbean, where tensions with the Spanish were rising.



Answer :

Final answer:

Countries fought to control island nations in the late 1800s primarily for strategic military and economic benefits.


Explanation:

Nations fought to control the islands to use them as supply and refueling stations for ships at sea. The acquisition of external colonial possessions like the Philippines, Cuba, Puerto Rico, Guam, and various Pacific islands provided strategic military support to protect shipping lanes. The United States and other countries saw these islands as essential for enhancing security and economic interests.


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