Question

which factor motivated the u.s. government to support latin american dictators during the 1970s?
a a need to ensure access to shipping routes
b a concern about the spread of leftist ideology
c a need for partners to address environmental issues
d a concern about the proliferation of nuclear weapons

Explanation:

During the 1970s, the U.S. was concerned about the spread of leftist (often socialist/communist - aligned) ideologies in Latin America, as many Latin American countries saw leftist movements gaining traction. Supporting dictators was a way to counter this spread. Option A: Ensuring shipping routes wasn't the main reason for supporting dictators in Latin America then. Option C: Environmental issues weren't a key motivator for such support in the 1970s. Option D: Nuclear proliferation in Latin America wasn't a major concern driving support for dictators; the focus was on ideological spread. So the correct factor is a concern about the spread of leftist ideology.

Answer:

B. a concern about the spread of leftist ideology