PSAT Reading Question 531: Answer and Explanation

Question: 531

Which of the following does the author argue was the most significant motivation for U.S. citizens who wanted to go to war with Canada in the early 1800s?

• A. Vengeance toward the British
• B. Territorial ambitions
• C. The continued capture of American sailors
• D. Defense against Native-American incursions

Correct Answer: B

Explanation:

(B) Lines 35–38 provide the evidence for this answer, saying that "no cause for war was more compelling in the U.S. than the desire to expand the nation into the northern territories." Although the other options would motivate U.S. citizens to fight against the British, they do not represent the "most significant" motivation to do so.