Spanish-American War

Definition

The Spanish-American War was a conflict between Spain and the United States in 1898, primarily over the issue of Cuban independence. This war marked a significant turning point in the history of colonial empires as it resulted in the U.S. emerging as a global power and led to the decline of Spanish colonial influence in the Americas and beyond.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The war began on April 25, 1898, following the explosion of the USS Maine in Havana Harbor, which fueled American public support for intervention in Cuba.
2. The conflict lasted only about four months, ending with a decisive victory for the United States, which highlighted its growing military capabilities.
3. The war resulted in significant territorial gains for the United States, including Guam, Puerto Rico, and the Philippines, effectively marking the beginning of American imperialism.
4. Public sentiment in America was heavily influenced by yellow journalism, which sensationalized events in Cuba and stirred up patriotic feelings.
5. The aftermath of the war led to debates within the U.S. regarding imperialism and its responsibilities towards newly acquired territories, particularly concerning issues of governance and rights for those populations.

Review Questions

• How did the Spanish-American War affect U.S. foreign policy in terms of imperialism?
  • The Spanish-American War significantly shifted U.S. foreign policy towards imperialism by establishing the nation as a dominant power in the Caribbean and Pacific regions. Following the war, America took on a more assertive role on the global stage, acquiring territories such as Puerto Rico and the Philippines. This newfound power led to debates within the U.S. about its role as an empire and how to govern its new possessions responsibly.
• Discuss how public opinion influenced the U.S. decision to engage in the Spanish-American War.
  • Public opinion played a critical role in influencing the U.S. decision to go to war with Spain. Sensationalist reporting by newspapers engaged in yellow journalism stirred up emotions among Americans regarding Cuba's plight under Spanish rule. The explosion of the USS Maine was also used as a rallying cry, leading many citizens to demand military intervention. This combination of media influence and public sentiment pressured government leaders to take action against Spain.
• Evaluate the consequences of the Treaty of Paris (1898) on Spain's colonial empire and on U.S.-Cuba relations.
  • The Treaty of Paris (1898) marked a significant blow to Spain's colonial empire as it resulted in Spain relinquishing control over its last major colonies. This treaty led to territorial losses that diminished Spain’s influence in both the Caribbean and Asia. For U.S.-Cuba relations, it initiated a complicated dynamic where Cuba was granted independence but remained under American oversight through mechanisms like the Platt Amendment, creating tension over issues of sovereignty and self-governance that would impact future relations between the two countries.

Related terms

Cuban Independence: The movement aimed at liberating Cuba from Spanish rule, which intensified in the late 19th century and became a central issue leading to the war.

Treaty of Paris (1898): The agreement that formally ended the Spanish-American War, resulting in Spain ceding Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines to the United States.

Imperialism:

The policy of extending a country's power and influence through colonization or military force, which was a driving force behind the U.S. actions in the Spanish-American War.