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Beginning in the 20th century, many countries were in a race to acquire an overseas empire. America was no different. There was great support for American expansion overseas. Those who were involved in industry wanted access to better and cheaper raw materials to produce goods, and those with a religious zeal wanted to spread the gospel to the native peoples in those lands. In addition, nationalists wanted to increase the nation's power and prestige, and militarists felt America needed military bases in strategic places around the world.
During the 19th century, America was mostly concerned with establishing the nation from within. But by the end of World War I, the country could boast that it was a global empire. The U.S. acquired many lands, such as Hawaii, Guam, Puerto Rico, the Philippines, and the Virgin Islands.
