The Treaty of Paris 1898 was an agreement that ended the Spanish-American War, signed on December 10, 1898. This treaty marked a significant shift in global power dynamics, as it resulted in Spain relinquishing control of its overseas colonies, including Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines, to the United States, thereby establishing the U.S. as a colonial power.
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The treaty officially ended hostilities between the U.S. and Spain, following a brief but impactful war sparked by humanitarian concerns over Cuban independence.
As part of the treaty, Spain ceded Puerto Rico and Guam to the United States and transferred sovereignty over the Philippines for a payment of $20 million.
The acquisition of territories from Spain marked the United States' emergence as a global imperial power and influenced its foreign policy for decades.
The treaty faced domestic criticism, particularly from anti-imperialists who argued against U.S. expansionism and questioned the morality of ruling over other nations.
Ratification of the treaty was a contentious political issue in the U.S., illustrating deep divisions over imperialism and America's role in world affairs.
Review Questions
How did the Treaty of Paris 1898 reflect changes in American foreign policy following the Spanish-American War?
The Treaty of Paris 1898 marked a pivotal moment in American foreign policy as it transitioned from a relatively isolationist stance to one that embraced imperialism. The acquisition of territories such as Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines indicated a shift towards a more interventionist approach aimed at expanding U.S. influence abroad. This treaty demonstrated America's willingness to engage in international conflicts for strategic gains, reshaping its role on the global stage.
Evaluate the implications of the territorial acquisitions from Spain under the Treaty of Paris 1898 for both the U.S. and its new territories.
The territorial acquisitions from Spain had significant implications for both the United States and its new territories. For the U.S., it solidified its status as an emerging imperial power with strategic military and economic interests in the Caribbean and Pacific regions. For the newly acquired territories, particularly the Philippines, it sparked resistance movements against American rule, highlighting conflicts over sovereignty and self-determination that would shape their political futures. This contrast set the stage for ongoing debates about colonialism and American identity.
Analyze how the debates surrounding the ratification of the Treaty of Paris 1898 reflected broader societal attitudes towards imperialism in late 19th-century America.
The debates over ratifying the Treaty of Paris 1898 revealed deep societal divides regarding imperialism in late 19th-century America. Supporters argued that acquiring overseas territories was essential for national security and economic growth, reflecting a belief in Manifest Destiny extended beyond continental borders. Conversely, anti-imperialists voiced strong opposition, emphasizing moral objections to subjugating other nations and advocating for self-determination. These discussions not only illustrated differing perspectives on American identity but also laid groundwork for future debates about U.S. foreign policy.
A conflict between Spain and the United States in 1898, primarily over issues related to Cuba's fight for independence from Spanish rule.
Philippines: An archipelago in Southeast Asia that came under U.S. control as a result of the Treaty of Paris 1898, leading to subsequent conflicts over its status and governance.
The practice of acquiring and maintaining colonies or territories, often involving the domination of one nation over another, which intensified after the Treaty of Paris 1898.