How did the United States respond to Japan's rise as a power in the late 19th century?

The United States' response to Japan's rise as a power in the late 19th century can be characterized by a period of relative indifference to Japan's military and economic advancements. During this time, Japan was emerging as a significant force in East Asia, particularly after the Meiji Restoration, which set the stage for rapid industrialization and modernization. The U.S. was primarily focused on its own westward expansion and dealing with its domestic issues, such as the aftermath of the Civil War and industrialization at home.

It wasn't until the early 20th century that the U.S. began to pay closer attention to Japan, particularly as Japan signaled its aspirations more overtly, for instance through victories in conflicts like the First Sino-Japanese War (1894-1895) and the Russo-Japanese War (1904-1905). By largely overlooking Japan's earlier advancements in military and economic power, the United States allowed Japan to gain confidence in its own capabilities without significant interference, reflecting a national focus that was more inward-looking at that time.

In contrast, other options suggest responses that reflect stronger engagement or direct opposition to Japan, which did not align with the broader context of U.S. foreign policy during that period.