Choose the phrase that BEST completes this statement. “When looking at the map from 1700s, it is clear that ______ in what is now the United States.”
A no European powers had yet settled in what would become California
B the British had the most Atlantic coastline of any European power
C the French were denied access to major lakes and rivers
D the Spanish were unable to establish any settlements
The correct answer is B the British had the most Atlantic coastline of any European power.
Explanation: In the 1700s, British colonial expansion along the Atlantic coast was significant. The map from that period shows the thirteen colonies established along the eastern seaboard, which clearly reflects British dominance in that region compared to the presence of other European powers like France and Spain. This context is essential for understanding the geopolitical dynamics in what is now the United States during that time.