The Treaty of Paris 1898 was an agreement that ended the Spanish-American War, signed on December 10, 1898. This treaty marked a significant turning point in American expansionism as it resulted in Spain relinquishing its claims to Cuba, and ceding Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines to the United States, thus solidifying America’s role as a global power and expanding its territorial reach.
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The treaty was negotiated by American diplomats, including William R. Day and Whitelaw Reid, in Paris.
Cuba was granted independence, but the United States established significant control over the island through the Platt Amendment in 1901.
The United States paid Spain $20 million for the Philippines as part of the treaty terms.
The acquisition of Puerto Rico and Guam marked the beginning of U.S. territorial expansion into the Caribbean and Pacific regions.
The treaty sparked debates within the U.S. about imperialism and whether to annex new territories, highlighting divisions between expansionists and anti-imperialists.
Review Questions
How did the Treaty of Paris 1898 reflect the United States' emerging status as an imperial power?
The Treaty of Paris 1898 reflected the United States' emerging status as an imperial power by formalizing its territorial gains from the Spanish-American War. By acquiring Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines, along with asserting control over Cuba, the U.S. demonstrated its willingness to engage in global politics and expand its influence beyond North America. This marked a shift from a primarily isolationist stance to one that embraced imperialism, signaling a new era in U.S. foreign policy.
Discuss how the Treaty of Paris 1898 influenced American public opinion on imperialism during that period.
The Treaty of Paris 1898 significantly influenced American public opinion on imperialism by igniting debates between supporters and opponents of expansionism. Proponents argued that acquiring territories would enhance America's economic and military strength, while opponents voiced concerns about moral implications and the challenges of governing distant lands. These discussions were pivotal in shaping national identity and policy as America navigated its role on the world stage following the treaty.
Evaluate the long-term impacts of the Treaty of Paris 1898 on U.S. foreign relations and its empire-building efforts in the following century.
The long-term impacts of the Treaty of Paris 1898 on U.S. foreign relations were profound as it set a precedent for American intervention in foreign conflicts and territorial acquisitions throughout the 20th century. This shift towards an imperialist approach resulted in military engagements in places like Vietnam and conflicts in Latin America, showcasing America's commitment to maintaining influence globally. Additionally, it laid foundational tensions regarding race, culture, and governance in newly acquired territories that continued to shape debates over U.S. identity and foreign policy well into modern times.
A conflict between the United States and Spain in 1898 that arose from U.S. intervention in the Cuban War of Independence, leading to a decisive victory for the U.S.
The policy of extending a country's power and influence through colonization, military force, or other means, significant in shaping U.S. foreign policy after 1898.
Cuba Libre: The movement for Cuban independence from Spanish rule that fueled U.S. involvement in the Spanish-American War and influenced the terms of the Treaty of Paris.