Spanish-American War (1898)
Published 2023-11-25
The Spanish-American War was a conflict between the United States and Spain, primarily over the issues of Cuban independence and the sinking of the USS Maine. The war marked a turning point for the United States as it emerged as a global power.
Key facts about the Spanish-American War:
Cuban Independence Movement: Cuba was a Spanish colony, and by the late 19th century, there was a growing movement for independence from Spanish rule. The Cubans sought support from the United States.
Yellow Journalism: Sensationalized reporting, known as "yellow journalism," played a role in shaping public opinion and fueling anti-Spanish sentiment. The sinking of the USS Maine in Havana Harbor in 1898 was particularly sensationalized by the press.
Sinking of the USS Maine: The USS Maine, a U.S. battleship stationed in Havana, exploded on February 15, 1898. While the cause of the explosion remains unclear, yellow journalism attributed it to Spanish sabotage. The incident heightened tensions between the U.S. and Spain.
Declaration of War: On April 25, 1898, the United States declared war on Spain. The U.S. government cited reasons such as the sinking of the USS Maine, the brutality of Spanish rule in Cuba, and a desire to assist the Cuban people in their quest for independence.
Commodore George Dewey in the Philippines: The U.S. Asiatic Squadron, under the command of Commodore George Dewey, defeated the Spanish fleet in the Battle of Manila Bay in the Philippines on May 1, 1898. This victory established the United States as a naval power in the Pacific.
The Rough Riders and San Juan Hill: In the Caribbean, the U.S. forces, including Theodore Roosevelt's Rough Riders, played a key role in the Battle of San Juan Hill in Cuba. The battle was a significant U.S. victory.
Treaty of Paris (1898): The war ended with the signing of the Treaty of Paris on December 10, 1898. Spain ceded Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines to the United States. Cuba gained independence but became a U.S. protectorate.
Puerto Rico and Guam: Puerto Rico and Guam became territories of the United States. The U.S. presence in Puerto Rico continues to this day.
Philippine-American War: The acquisition of the Philippines led to the Philippine-American War (1899-1902) as Filipinos sought independence. The conflict was marked by guerilla warfare and lasted several years.
Impact on the United States: The Spanish-American War had a profound impact on the United States. It marked the country's emergence as a global power and underscored the shift from a focus on continental expansion to overseas imperial ambitions.
The Spanish-American War had lasting effects on U.S. foreign policy, shaping its role in global affairs and influencing its approach to territories acquired during the conflict.