An important factor in promoting the shift in American foreign policy after the Civil War was:

A) the search for markets for American products.

B) the desire to bring democracy to the rest of the world.

C) Great Britain's refusal to pay the Alabama claims.

D) France's invasion of Mexico.

E) support for Secretary of State Seward's expansionist policy.

A) the search for markets for American products.

Explanation:

The United States became a wealthy, fully industrialized country in the years between 1865 and 1900. American companies exported goods to different parts of the world and American businessmen invested around the world. Its economic interests became global. Industrial might also meant the development of a powerful army and navy to protect American interests abroad.

So, by the end of the 19th century, just as in the case of European industrial powers, there was an increasing pressure to guarantee access to sources of raw materials and new markets for industrial goods. The 1898 Spanish-American War marked the advent of an epoch in which the US got more involved in international affairs and was ready to use its military muscle to protect its interests globally.