Spanish-American War

Definition

The Spanish-American War was a conflict fought between Spain and the United States in 1898, primarily over issues of Cuban independence. The war marked a significant turning point in U.S. foreign policy, leading to the emergence of the U.S. as a global power and the acquisition of territories such as Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The war began in April 1898 and lasted only about four months, resulting in a swift victory for the United States.
2. One of the key events leading up to the war was the explosion of the USS Maine in Havana Harbor, which was blamed on Spain and fueled public outrage.
3. The conflict not only involved battles in Cuba but also included significant naval engagements in the Pacific, particularly against Spanish forces in the Philippines.
4. Following the war, the United States faced debates about imperialism and its role as a colonial power, leading to discussions about governance in newly acquired territories.
5. The war set a precedent for U.S. intervention in Latin America and shaped future American foreign policy in the region.

Review Questions

• How did Yellow Journalism influence public perception and support for the Spanish-American War?
  • Yellow Journalism played a significant role in shaping public perception by sensationalizing reports about Spanish atrocities in Cuba. Newspapers exaggerated events and stirred emotions among readers, creating a strong desire for intervention. This heightened public sentiment contributed to political pressure on the U.S. government to take action against Spain, ultimately leading to the outbreak of the war.
• What were the terms of the Treaty of Paris (1898), and how did they impact U.S. territorial expansion?
  • The Treaty of Paris ended the Spanish-American War and resulted in Spain ceding Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines to the United States. This marked a significant expansion of U.S. territory and influence beyond its continental borders. The acquisition of these territories raised questions about American imperialism and prompted debates over how to govern these new lands while considering the rights of their inhabitants.
• Evaluate the long-term implications of the Spanish-American War on U.S. foreign policy and its role as an emerging global power.
  • The Spanish-American War had profound long-term implications for U.S. foreign policy by establishing it as a significant imperial power with overseas territories. The war marked a shift from isolationism to a more interventionist approach in international affairs. As a result, the United States began to engage more actively in global politics, setting precedents for future interventions in Latin America and Asia, which would shape America's role on the world stage well into the 20th century.

Related terms

Treaty of Paris (1898): The treaty that ended the Spanish-American War, whereby Spain ceded control of Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines to the United States.

Yellow Journalism: A style of sensationalized reporting that contributed to public support for the war by exaggerating events in Cuba and portraying Spain as a brutal oppressor.

Cuban Revolution:

The movement led by Cuban nationalists seeking independence from Spanish rule, which served as a catalyst for U.S. involvement in the war.