Spanish-American War

Definition

The Spanish-American War was a conflict between Spain and the United States in 1898 that resulted in the U.S. emerging as a global power after defeating Spain and acquiring its overseas territories. This war was fueled by American expansionism, the desire to support Cuban independence, and sensationalist media coverage, which played a significant role in shaping public opinion about the conflict.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The war lasted from April to August 1898 and was sparked by events like the sinking of the USS Maine in Havana Harbor.
2. Yellow journalism, characterized by exaggerated and sensationalist reporting, played a crucial role in swaying American public opinion in favor of war against Spain.
3. The U.S. quickly achieved victories in both the Caribbean and the Pacific theaters, showcasing its military capabilities.
4. The war marked a turning point for the U.S., transitioning from a continental nation to an imperial power with colonies overseas.
5. The aftermath of the war led to debates about imperialism in American society, as some opposed acquiring territories like the Philippines on moral and political grounds.

Review Questions

• How did yellow journalism influence public perception of the Spanish-American War and contribute to U.S. involvement?
  • Yellow journalism significantly influenced public perception by sensationalizing events like the sinking of the USS Maine and portraying Spain as a villain oppressing Cuba. The exaggerated headlines and emotionally charged stories stirred public outrage and support for intervention. This type of journalism mobilized American sentiment towards war, making it difficult for policymakers to avoid involvement despite varying opinions on the conflict's necessity.
• Analyze how the outcomes of the Spanish-American War changed the political landscape of the United States.
  • The outcomes of the Spanish-American War transformed the political landscape by positioning the U.S. as an imperial power on the global stage. The acquisition of territories such as Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines opened new avenues for trade and military presence, altering American foreign policy. Additionally, this shift sparked significant domestic debates about imperialism versus anti-imperialism, shaping political ideologies and influencing subsequent U.S. actions in international affairs.
• Evaluate the long-term effects of the Spanish-American War on U.S.-Cuba relations and American imperialism.
  • The long-term effects of the Spanish-American War significantly shaped U.S.-Cuba relations and reinforced American imperialism. The Platt Amendment allowed the U.S. to exert control over Cuba's foreign affairs while granting it nominal independence, leading to decades of interventionist policies. This dynamic established a pattern of American involvement in Latin America that extended well into the 20th century, reflecting a broader trend of asserting influence over neighboring countries while grappling with moral implications surrounding imperialism.

Related terms

Imperialism: A policy of extending a country's power and influence through diplomacy or military force, which was a driving force behind the Spanish-American War as the U.S. sought to expand its territory.

Cuban Independence: The movement for Cuba to gain independence from Spanish colonial rule, which was a major factor that prompted U.S. intervention during the war.

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