Spanish-American War

Definition

The Spanish-American War was a conflict in 1898 between the United States and Spain, primarily driven by U.S. intervention in Cuba's struggle for independence. This brief war resulted in a decisive victory for the U.S., leading to significant territorial gains and a shift in America's role on the global stage, as well as influencing the development of journalism in that era, particularly with the rise of yellow journalism.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The war began after the explosion of the USS Maine in Havana harbor, which fueled public outrage and calls for U.S. intervention against Spain.
2. The conflict lasted only about four months, from April to August 1898, showcasing America's military capabilities and rapid mobilization.
3. The United States emerged as a colonial power after the war, acquiring territories such as Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines.
4. Public sentiment, influenced by yellow journalism, played a crucial role in pushing for war; sensationalist headlines stirred emotions and nationalistic fervor among Americans.
5. The war marked a significant shift in U.S. foreign policy, moving from isolationism towards a more interventionist approach in global affairs.

Review Questions

• How did yellow journalism influence public opinion leading up to the Spanish-American War?
  • Yellow journalism significantly shaped public opinion by sensationalizing events and creating an emotional response among Americans. Newspapers exaggerated stories about Spanish atrocities in Cuba, which stirred outrage and sympathy for Cuban rebels. This media frenzy helped galvanize public support for U.S. intervention, ultimately pushing the country towards war with Spain.
• What were the major outcomes of the Treaty of Paris (1898) following the Spanish-American War?
  • The Treaty of Paris (1898) formally ended the Spanish-American War and resulted in Spain ceding several territories to the United States. This included Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines. The treaty marked a significant turning point for U.S. foreign policy as it transitioned America into a colonial power, leading to debates over imperialism and governance of newly acquired territories.
• Evaluate the impact of the Spanish-American War on American foreign policy and its implications for future international relations.
  • The Spanish-American War dramatically transformed American foreign policy from isolationism to interventionism. By emerging victorious and acquiring new territories, the United States established itself as a formidable global power. This shift paved the way for future interventions in Latin America and beyond, influencing America's approach to international relations throughout the 20th century, especially during events like World War I and II, where American involvement became more pronounced.

Related terms

Yellow Journalism: A style of sensationalist journalism that exaggerates news stories to provoke public interest and support, particularly seen in the reporting leading up to the Spanish-American War.

Cuban War of Independence: A conflict that lasted from 1895 to 1898 in which Cuban revolutionaries fought against Spanish colonial rule, ultimately prompting U.S. involvement in the Spanish-American War.

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