Spanish-American War Context

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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.

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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