Spanish-American War Context
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Questions and Answers

What was the primary sector that American investment focused on in Cuba after the revolt?

  • Tourism
  • Mining
  • Cotton production
  • Sugar industry (correct)
  • Which country was the largest consumer of Cuban sugar at the end of the nineteenth century?

  • Britain
  • France
  • United States (correct)
  • Spain
  • What action did the United States take in 1890 regarding tariffs on Cuban sugar?

  • Removed tariffs (correct)
  • Increased tariffs
  • Equalized tariffs with Cuba
  • Imposed new tariffs
  • What was the approximate annual trade value between the U.S. and Cuba after the American investments flowed in?

    <p>$100 million (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What major economic event in 1893 affected both U.S. and Cuban economies?

    <p>Recession (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    After the U.S. imposed tariffs on sugar imports in 1894, how did this decision affect Cuba?

    <p>Cuba's economy suffered (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a key reason for the U.S. interest in acquiring Cuba?

    <p>Desire for agricultural expansion (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What sentiment did the Spanish government have towards granting independence to Cuba?

    <p>Opposed to independence (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the primary objective of U.S. troops during the war mentioned?

    <p>To capture Santiago (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which group of soldiers saw action in the invasion of Puerto Rico?

    <p>A unit from Massachusetts (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What major challenge did U.S. troops face in Cuba aside from combat?

    <p>Harsh climate conditions (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How did the treatment of black soldiers differ from their white counterparts during the war?

    <p>They faced discrimination at military bases (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the outcome of the combat engagements faced by U.S. troops?

    <p>The casualties were heavy on both sides (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the broader historical context of the United States' actions during this period?

    <p>The transition to imperialism (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following best describes the level of determination from Spanish forces?

    <p>They put up strong resistance to the Americans (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What can be inferred about the health conditions of U.S. troops in Cuba?

    <p>Many contracted tropical diseases (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What event triggered outrage in the United States following weeks of calm?

    <p>The letter from Enrique Dupuy de Lome (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the primary consequence of the explosion of the U.S.S. Maine?

    <p>The declaration of war against Spain (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What phrase became a rallying cry for Americans after the Maine incident?

    <p>Remember the Maine, to hell with Spain! (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How did the American press respond to the explosion of the U.S.S. Maine?

    <p>They accused Spanish authorities of sabotage. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the result of Theodore Roosevelt's belief about the U.S.S. Maine?

    <p>He believed it was due to Spanish treachery. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was one of the actions taken by the American public after the Maine incident?

    <p>They demanded an immediate war declaration. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What did the Spanish government do in response to the outrage from Americans?

    <p>They apologized for the incident. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the fate of the U.S.S. Maine in Havana harbor?

    <p>It suffered a catastrophic explosion. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What did victory in a war with Spain likely mean for the United States?

    <p>Increase in lucrative trade with Asia (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was McKinley's stance on the cause of the Maine explosion?

    <p>He had serious doubts about the cause. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why did leaders feel war was necessary regarding Spain and Cuba?

    <p>To protect U.S. military and economic interests (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What authorization did Congress give to McKinley on April 19?

    <p>To prepare for war by increasing the defense budget (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How did U.S. investigators report the cause of the Maine sinking?

    <p>They claimed it was due to an underwater mine. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the public presentation of U.S. goals in Cuba primarily focused on?

    <p>Defending the rights of the Cuban people (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the initial response of Congress to McKinley's request for military action?

    <p>They unanimously granted authority to go to war. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the significance of the $50 million added to the defense budget?

    <p>It was to enhance military readiness for potential conflict. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the perception of President McKinley and Congress towards the representation of tropical people?

    <p>They found it difficult to imagine them in Congress. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How did William Howard Taft refer to the Filipinos?

    <p>Little brown brothers. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What assumption did Emilio Aguinaldo make regarding the United States' intentions in the Philippines?

    <p>The U.S. would liberate the Philippines after the war. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was Emilio Aguinaldo's role following the declaration of independence?

    <p>He proclaimed himself head of a revolutionary government. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What sentiment was largely absent in white newspapers regarding Filipino nationalists?

    <p>Support for their cause. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was a common justification used to argue against the inclusion of tropical peoples in Congress?

    <p>They were seen as morally inferior. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the phrase 'the weight of their intelligence' suggest about the perception of tropical people?

    <p>They were underestimated in their political abilities. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What concern did Carl Schurz express regarding the future of the Republic?

    <p>The moral implications of foreign representation. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What assumption did War Department officials make about black soldiers during the Spanish-American War?

    <p>They were better suited to withstand tropical diseases. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What percentage of troops involved in the offensive against Santiago were either killed or wounded?

    <p>10 percent (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which battle was notable for the black soldiers participating in the assault to Santiago?

    <p>Battle of Kettle Hill (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How did the African-American community contribute to the military efforts during the war?

    <p>They pressed for the inclusion of black officers. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What were the common causes of death among American servicemen during the Spanish-American War?

    <p>Tropical diseases, food poisoning, and accidents (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    At which point were black recruits more widely accepted during the Spanish-American War?

    <p>After the second call for volunteers (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the outcome for the black soldiers in terms of promotion during the war?

    <p>They were mostly denied promotion into the officer corps. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was the approximate number of Americans who died in battle during the entire war?

    <p>345 (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Flashcards

    Manifest Destiny

    The belief that the United States had a divine right to expand its territory across North America.

    Age of Imperialism

    The era in US history marked by the expansion of American power and influence overseas, particularly in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

    Little Brown Brothers

    A term used by William Howard Taft to describe Filipinos, reflecting a paternalistic and condescending view of the Filipino people.

    Emilio Aguinaldo

    The leader of the Filipino nationalist movement who initially believed the United States would grant independence to the Philippines after the Spanish-American War.

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    Filipino Nationalists

    The position held by Filipinos who sought independence from Spanish rule.

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    Negotiations about the Future of Cuba

    The negotiation process between Spain and the US regarding the future of Cuba after the Spanish-American War.

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    American Imperialism

    The idea that the US had the right and obligation to govern and civilize other nations, often justified by racial superiority and a sense of American exceptionalism.

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    Carl Schurz

    A German-American political figure who opposed the expansion of American Imperialism, arguing that it would be detrimental to American democracy.

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    Imperialism

    The process of expanding a nation's power and influence through military force, colonization, and economic domination.

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    Spanish-American War

    The Spanish-American War was a conflict between the United States and Spain, resulting in Spain losing its colonial possessions, including Cuba, Puerto Rico, and Guam.

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    Why did the U.S. win the Spanish-American War?

    The United States' victory in the Spanish-American War was largely due to their focus on capturing Santiago, a major Spanish garrison in Cuba.

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    Treatment of Black Soldiers in the Spanish-American War

    During the Spanish-American War, many Black soldiers experienced harsh conditions and discrimination despite their service.

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    Beyond Manifest Destiny

    The term 'Beyond Manifest Destiny' refers to the shift in American foreign policy from westward expansion to acquiring overseas territories, marking the beginning of American imperialism.

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    Challenges in Cuba

    The U.S. military faced significant challenges in Cuba due to diseases and tropical conditions.

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    Black Soldier Participation in the Caribbean

    Only one Black regiment, from Massachusetts, participated in fighting in the Caribbean during the Spanish-American War, highlighting the limited opportunities for Black soldiers.

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    Why were black soldiers preferred for the Cuban climate?

    African American soldiers were deemed better suited to fight in the tropical climate of Cuba than their white counterparts.

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    What made black soldiers more suitable for Cuban diseases?

    Black soldiers were considered resistant to tropical illnesses, which were prevalent in Cuba.

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    How did the black soldiers perform during the Spanish-American War?

    During the Spanish-American War, black soldiers were praised for their bravery and resilience in combat.

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    What was the significance of black soldiers in the war?

    Black soldiers contributed significantly to the US victory over Spain, especially in the decisive battles for Santiago, Cuba.

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    What challenges did black soldiers face despite their efforts?

    Despite their contributions, black soldiers faced discrimination and were denied promotion to leadership positions within the military.

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    How did black men respond to the call for volunteers?

    Though they were initially rejected, thousands of black men volunteered to fight for the US during the Spanish-American War.

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    How did black soldiers contribute to the capture of Kettle Hill and San Juan Hill?

    Black soldiers played a vital role in capturing Kettle Hill and San Juan Hill, key positions that paved the way for the US victory at Santiago.

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    What happened to the Spanish fleet at Santiago?

    The Spanish fleet was defeated outside of Santiago harbor, contributing significantly to the US victory in the Spanish-American War.

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    The Sinking of the USS Maine

    The sinking of the USS Maine in Havana Harbor on February 15, 1898.

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    Remember the Maine, to hell with Spain!

    A phrase used widely in the United States during the Spanish-American War. It reflected a sense of national outrage and a desire for revenge.

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    American Press Blames Spain

    The American press, after the sinking of the Maine, immediately blamed Spain for the incident.

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    Blame on Spanish Authorities

    Spanish authorities were blamed for the sinking of the USS Maine with little to no investigation.

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    McKinley's Suspicion

    The McKinley administration, following the sinking of the Maine, suspected foul play by Spain.

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    USS Maine in Havana

    The sinking of the USS Maine occurred on January 25, 1898, while the ship was on a courtesy visit to Havana Harbor.

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    Escalating Tensions

    The incident involving the USS Maine played a major role in escalating tensions between the United States and Spain.

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    Public Opinion Swayed

    The sinking of the USS Maine influenced public opinion, pushing the United States closer to war with Spain.

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    What were U.S. goals in the East Indies?

    The United States sought to control strategic ports in the East Indies, such as those in France, the Netherlands and Britain, to increase trade with Asia.

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    Why did the US want to control ports in the East Indies?

    The United States aimed to secure economic and military interests in the East Indies and influence trade with Asia.

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    What was the US’s official stance on Cuba?

    The United States wanted to ensure the freedom and well-being of the Cuban people and protect their rights.

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    How did McKinley respond to the Maine explosion?

    While McKinley had doubts about the cause of the Maine explosion, he allowed tensions to escalate and prepared for war with Spain.

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    What was the impact of the Maine explosion on the public?

    The sinking of the USS Maine fueled war fever among the American public, pressuring McKinley to take action against Spain.

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    How did Congress respond to McKinley’s request?

    Congress granted President McKinley the authority to use military force against Spain, paving the way for the Spanish-American War.

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    What was the United States’ justification for war with Spain?

    The United States believed that the only way to resolve the Cuban conflict and protect its interests was through military force.

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    Why did the US go to war with Spain?

    The US government felt that military intervention was necessary to remove Spain from Cuba and secure American trade and influence in the region.

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    Spain's Decline in the New World

    The loss of most of its colonies in the Americas during the 1800s, leaving Cuba as Spain's last major possession in the Western Hemisphere.

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    Cuba's Strategic Importance

    The strategic importance of Cuba for both Spain and the United States during the late 19th century due to its geographical location near Florida.

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    Sugar Industry in Cuba

    The economic dominance of the sugar industry in Cuba, accounting for 80% of the country's economic activity in the late 19th century.

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    U.S.-Cuba Trade

    The significant trade relationship between the United States and Cuba, particularly in the sugar market, where the US was the largest consumer of Cuban sugar.

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    Tariffs and Cuban Sugar

    The US decision to remove tariffs on Cuban sugar entering its market in 1890, which significantly lowered the price and stimulated trade between the two nations.

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    Economic Depression and Trade

    The economic downturn in both Cuba and the United States in 1893, which led to pressure on the US government to protect its own sugar producers by limiting Cuban imports.

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    Tariffs and Cuban Rebellion

    The US decision in 1894 to impose a 40% tariff on sugar imports from Cuba, which negatively impacted the Cuban economy and fueled the rebellion against Spanish rule.

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    Economic Factors and Cuban Rebellion

    The connection between economic factors, like tariffs, and political unrest in Cuba, highlighting the interconnectedness of economics and politics.

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    Study Notes

    Spanish-American War Context

    • The US had renewed interest in Cuba, a Spanish colony, in the 1880s and 90s.
    • Cuba was seen as strategically important for the US, and some hoped it would become part of the US.
    • The US had significant economic interests in Cuba's sugar industry.
    • Spain refused to grant Cuba independence or sell it to another country.
    • A revolt against Spain started in Cuba in 1868.

    Revolution in Cuba

    • A revolt against Spanish rule began in 1868 in Cuba.
    • Cuban rebels hoped to join the US.
    • The revolt lasted a decade, resulting in 200,000 deaths
    • Spain promised self-government but maintained control.
    • US investment in Cuban sugar industry grew.
    • Tariffs on Cuban sugar reduced, boosting the Cuban economy.
    • A depression in 1893 negatively affected the Cuban and US economies.

    US Interest in Cuba

    • The US had significant investment in the Cuban sugar industry.
    • They were the largest consumers of Cuban sugar, making it crucial to their economy.
    • The US had significant trade with Cuba, exceeding $100 million annually.
    • Economic downturn in the US (1893) caused demand for Cuban sugar to decrease.
    • This pressured the US to protect its sugar producers.

    Spanish Response to Revolt

    • Spain responded to the 1895 revolt with more troops (over 120,000)
    • Cubans, also known as nationalists, fought with around 60,000 people.
    • Spain concentrated Cuban civilians in camps for lack of supplies.
    • This forced concentration caused extreme hardship and death.
    • The reconcentration camps saw widespread starvation and disease.

    American Public Opinion

    • American newspapers (Hearst and Pulitzer) played a huge role in shaping public opinion.
    • They reported on atrocities in Cuba, inciting sympathy for Cuban rebels.
    • Some Americans opposed intervention; others supported it for humanitarian reasons or economic interests.
    • The sinking of the USS Maine fueled war fervor.

    American Response to Cuban Events

    • Americans were divided regarding the US role in the Cuban revolt, with some supporting intervention and others cautioning against it.
    • Concerns were raised regarding US business interests in Cuba and the need for a peaceful settlement to the revolt.
    • Spanish ambassador insulted President McKinley, exacerbating tensions.

    The USS Maine

    • The USS Maine exploded in Havana harbor in February 1898.
    • This event was blamed on Spain, further inflaming public opinion.
    • This incident became a key catalyst for the Spanish-American War.

    War with Spain

    • The US declared war on Spain in 1898, responding to the events in Cuba. - The US Navy defeated the Spanish fleet in Manila, Philippines quickly.
    • US troops landed in Cuba and engaged Spanish troops.
    • The US, along with Filipino rebels, quickly overpowered the Spanish to achieve victory.
    • This victory demonstrated the US as a major world power, and led to the US gaining overseas territories.

    Filipino Revolt

    • The Filipinos, after initially supporting the US against Spain, fought the US.
    • The US was initially cautious about the Filipino rebels.
    • Commodore Dewey, mindful of the US Civil War, saw Filipino rebels as potential allies.
    • Filipinos hoped for total independence from foreign powers, which clashed with the US desire to control the region.

    Post-War Implications

    • The US gained control of Cuba and other territories (Puerto Rico, Guam, Philippines).
    • The Spanish American War marked the rise of US global power.
    • The war was ethically complex and controversial, especially concerning the treatment of Filipino and Cuban people.

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    Description

    This quiz explores the historical context leading up to the Spanish-American War, focusing on U.S. interests in Cuba and the impact of the Cuban revolt against Spanish rule. It addresses economic ties, the strategic importance of Cuba, and the events leading to U.S. intervention. Test your knowledge of this pivotal moment in history.

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