Maritime merchants sought access to western ports primarily to trade with which regions?

The correct response highlights that maritime merchants sought access to western ports mainly to engage in trade with Pacific countries. This focus on the Pacific region stems from the historical significance of trade routes that connected North America to various countries along the Pacific Rim, including notable trading partners such as China and Japan. These countries had valuable goods, including silk, spices, and other commodities that were in high demand in the United States and beyond.

The interests in trade with Pacific countries were particularly prominent during the 19th century when the United States was expanding its influence and establishing trade relationships across the Pacific Ocean, leading to significant economic opportunities. Access to western ports facilitated maritime commerce, enabling merchants to capitalize on these international markets.

In contrast, while Mexico and Texas were relevant for trade, they were not the primary focus of maritime merchants looking for broader, more lucrative international trade connections. New York, while an important commercial hub, was not a western port and thus not the target for those specifically seeking access to trade routes across the Pacific.