The Spanish-American War

Causes of the War

The Spanish-American War was a conflict between the United States and Spain. The war was caused by a number of factors, including the Cuban independence movement, the sinking of the USS Maine, and the American desire to expand its empire.

The Cuban Independence Movement

Cuba had been a Spanish colony for centuries. The Cuban people had long desired independence, and in 1895, they began a war against Spain. The Spanish government responded by sending troops to Cuba and by instituting a policy of concentration camps. The concentration camps were designed to hold Cuban civilians and to prevent them from supporting the independence movement. However, the conditions in the camps were horrible, and many Cubans died from disease and malnutrition.

The Sinking of the USS Maine

In February 1898, the USS Maine exploded in Havana harbor. The explosion killed 266 American sailors and marines. The United States government blamed Spain for the explosion, and the American people were outraged. The sinking of the Maine was a major factor in the United States’ decision to go to war with Spain.

The American Desire to Expand Its Empire

The United States was a rapidly growing country in the late 19th century. The country had a strong economy and a powerful military, and it was eager to expand its territory. The Spanish-American War was an opportunity for the United States to acquire new territory in the Caribbean and the Pacific.

The Course of the War

The Spanish-American War began in April 1898. The United States quickly defeated Spain in a series of naval battles. The American army then invaded Cuba, and the Spanish army surrendered in July 1898. The United States also acquired Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines from Spain.

The Consequences of the War

The Spanish-American War was a major turning point in American history. The war marked the end of Spain’s colonial empire and the beginning of the United States’ rise to global power. The war also led to the United States acquiring new territories in the Caribbean and the Pacific.