What was the significance of the 1890 Census in relation to American expansionism?

The significance of the 1890 Census in relation to American expansionism is primarily connected to the announcement that the American frontier was officially closed. This finding was crucial because it indicated that the continuous expanse of unsettled land that had characterized American growth and development since the 17th century had come to an end. The closing of the frontier shifted the national mindset regarding expansion; it not only symbolized the conclusion of an era of exploration and pioneering but also raised questions about the future of American society and its aspirations for growth.

With no new land to conquer, American leaders and thinkers began to explore the idea of overseas expansion as a solution to potential social and economic issues that could arise from a more crowded and industrialized nation. This period led to the adoption of imperialistic policies aimed at territories beyond North America, setting the stage for events such as the Spanish-American War and subsequent American involvement in the Pacific and Caribbean.

In contrast to the other choices, the ideas of American dominance in North America, plans for further Western expansion, and new immigration restrictions did not capture the essence of the economic and cultural shifts triggered by the census. The close of the frontier was a turning point that heavily influenced America's approach to foreign policy and territorial ambitions in the years that followed