. The excerpt below is from The Influence of Sea Power, written in 1890 by Alfred Thayer Mahan. To get the full benefit of superior geographical position, U. S. geographical] defects must be overcome. Furthermore, as her distance from the Isthmus (of Panama), though relatively less, is still considerable, the United States will have to obtain in the Caribbean stations fit for contingent, or secondary. bases of operations; which by their natural advantages, susceptibility of defense, and neamess to the central strategic issue, will enable her fleets to remain as near the scene as any opponent. Which goal of American Imperialism is the author conveying in the excerpt? A. The acquisition of new territories

B. The expansion of Anglo-Saxon values

C. The establishment of open-door trade policies

D. The extension of democracy to former European colonies