Question

why did the allies believe that new guinea was strategically important?
the territory was located far from the philippines.
it was close to australia and new zealand.
the japanese did not want this territory.
it was large enough to house military bases.

Explanation:

To determine why the Allies believed New Guinea was strategically important, we analyze each option:

• The first option ("The territory was located far from the Philippines") is incorrect because distance from the Philippines doesn't imply strategic importance for the Allies (who were protecting Australia/New Zealand).
• The second option ("It was close to Australia and New Zealand") is correct. Controlling New Guinea would help defend Australia and New Zealand from Japanese advancement, as it is geographically proximate to these Allied territories.
• The third option ("The Japanese did not want this territory") is incorrect; Japan sought control of New Guinea during WWII.
• The fourth option ("It was large enough to house military bases") is less relevant than its proximity to key Allied territories. The primary strategic concern was defending Australia/New Zealand, which is tied to New Guinea's location near them.

Answer:

B. It was close to Australia and New Zealand.