What was a primary motivation behind Japan's expansionist policies under General Tojo?

The primary motivation behind Japan's expansionist policies under General Tojo was the need for resources. In the years leading up to and during World War II, Japan faced significant challenges related to its limited natural resources. As a rapidly industrializing nation, Japan sought to secure essential materials such as oil, rubber, and minerals to support its military and economic ambitions. This quest for resources led to aggressive military campaigns in Asia, including the invasion of China and the expansion into Southeast Asia and the Pacific.

These expansionist efforts were driven by a belief that acquiring new territories was vital for Japan's survival and growth as a global power. Japan aimed to establish a self-sufficient empire that would alleviate its dependency on foreign imports, which were increasingly threatened by Western powers. Tojo and the Japanese leadership viewed this expansion as not only a means of securing resources but also as a way to assert Japan's dominance in the region and challenge Western imperialism.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately reflect the primary motivation behind Tojo's policies. The desire for peace was not a driving force, as Japan's actions were aggressive and militaristic. Establishing democracy was not aligned with the militaristic and authoritarian nature of the Japanese government at the time. While creating alliances was