How did the U.S. justify the annexation of the Philippines after the Spanish-American War?

The justification for the annexation of the Philippines after the Spanish-American War was primarily rooted in the belief that the United States had a moral obligation to educate and civilize the Filipino population. This perspective was influenced by a prevailing ideology known as the "White Man's Burden," which suggested that it was the duty of Western countries to bring their perceived superior values, governance, and ways of life to less developed nations. Proponents of annexation argued that American rule would lead to improvements in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and overall societal advancement for the Filipinos. This justification emphasized a paternalistic view, portraying U.S. control as a benevolent act aimed at uplifting the Philippine people, despite the fact that it overlooked their own aspirations for self-governance.

While the other options do present various factors that were considered in the context of imperialism, they do not capture the core justification that was used in public discourse at the time regarding the annexation of the Philippines. The focus on moral duty and civilizational duty played a significant role in swaying public opinion and governmental support for annexation.