What prompted people to begin seeking land outside the United States in the late 1800s?

The desire for new opportunities and territories in the late 1800s was a driving force behind the movement of people seeking land outside the United States. This period marked a significant phase in American history known as the Age of Expansionism, during which the U.S. was looking to extend its influence and acquire new territories for various reasons, including economic growth and the belief in Manifest Destiny.

The allure of land, particularly in areas like Alaska and Hawaii, as well as territories acquired after the Spanish-American War, promised not just agricultural opportunities but also prospects for wealth through resource extraction and trade. This expansionist mindset was fueled by the rapidly growing population, the quest for new markets, and the economic pressures of the industrial boom, leading many to pursue land beyond the continental borders of the United States.

While other factors, such as poverty in American communities and industrialization, played roles in motivating migration, the overarching theme of seeking new opportunities and territories captures the essence of the era's ambitions, making it the most fitting choice in this context.