Which statement about U.S. exports around the beginning of the twentieth century is supported by data?

The statement regarding U.S. exports around the beginning of the twentieth century that aligns with historical data indicates that Asia was a growing market for American goods. During this period, U.S. exports to Asia, including regions like China and Japan, expanded significantly as American companies sought to establish trade relationships and tap into new markets.

China, specifically, began to emerge as a potential major market due to its vast population and demand for imported goods, even if it was initially a smaller market compared to European nations. The enthusiasm from American business leaders about the prospects for trade in China reflects the overall optimism regarding Asia as a burgeoning market. While it is accurate that China would purchase less than more established markets in Europe at that time, stating that it purchased the least amount of U.S. exports neglects the growth potential and interest that American businesses had in Asia, especially China.

This context highlights the broader trend of American imperialism where the focus was increasingly shifting towards expanding influence and trade in Asia, thus supporting the idea that Asia represented a growing market during this transformative era in American economic history.