The Spanish-American War was a conflict fought in 1898 between the United States and Spain, primarily over the issue of Cuban independence. This war marked a turning point in American foreign policy, as it transitioned the U.S. into a global power with overseas territories, driven by ideals of imperialism and expansionism.
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The war lasted only about four months, from April to August 1898, but it had significant consequences for both the U.S. and Spain.
The U.S. victory was heavily influenced by naval power, particularly the destruction of the Spanish fleet at Santiago de Cuba.
Cuba gained nominal independence, but the Platt Amendment allowed the U.S. to intervene in Cuban affairs and established Guantanamo Bay as a naval base.
The war sparked debates within the U.S. about imperialism and whether to annex newly acquired territories like the Philippines.
The conflict resulted in a rapid expansion of American influence in Latin America and Asia, establishing a precedent for future interventions.
Review Questions
How did yellow journalism influence public opinion regarding the Spanish-American War?
Yellow journalism played a significant role in shaping public sentiment towards the Spanish-American War by sensationalizing events in Cuba, such as the sinking of the USS Maine. Newspapers like those owned by William Randolph Hearst and Joseph Pulitzer published exaggerated stories that portrayed Spanish cruelty towards Cubans, stirring up outrage among the American public. This type of journalism fueled calls for intervention and ultimately contributed to the U.S. decision to go to war.
Evaluate the consequences of the Treaty of Paris (1898) on American foreign policy and territorial expansion.
The Treaty of Paris (1898) had profound implications for American foreign policy, marking a shift towards imperialism as the U.S. acquired territories like Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines. This treaty signaled that America was no longer just focused on continental expansion but also interested in global power dynamics. The acquisition of these territories led to debates within the country about America's role on the world stage and set precedents for future military interventions and policies in Latin America and Asia.
Analyze how the outcome of the Spanish-American War reflected underlying themes of American imperialism and expansionism.
The outcome of the Spanish-American War epitomized American imperialism by demonstrating a willingness to engage in military conflict to assert influence over weaker nations. The acquisition of overseas territories highlighted a shift from isolationist policies to an active role in global affairs. It also illustrated underlying beliefs in Manifest Destiny, as many Americans viewed this expansion as a moral obligation to civilize and democratize other nations. The war's results prompted ongoing debates about America's identity and responsibilities as an emerging global power.
A 19th-century doctrine that the expansion of the United States across the American continents was both justified and inevitable.
Yellow Journalism: Sensationalized news reporting that exaggerated facts to provoke public interest, notably used by newspapers to rally support for the war.
Treaty of Paris (1898): The agreement that officially ended the Spanish-American War, resulting in Spain relinquishing control of Cuba and ceding Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines to the U.S.