Spanish-American War Overview

Spanish-American War Overview

• Lasted four months, from April to July 1898.
• Resulted from rising tensions between the United States and Spain.

Key Causes of the War

• Concern for Cuban independence spurred American intervention.
• The U.S. aimed to acquire new territorial possessions.
• Yellow Journalism by Hearst and Pulitzer incited public support through sensationalized, often false reporting.
• The explosion of the U.S.S. Maine in Havana harbor intensified public outrage against Spain, despite lack of evidence of Spanish involvement.

War and Combat

• Fought in both the Caribbean and Pacific theaters.
• The United States achieved swift victories against Spanish forces.
• Disease, notably yellow fever and typhoid, caused more fatalities than combat.

Treaty of Paris 1898

• Signed in December 1898, concluding the war.
• Granted Cuba independence, but under U.S. protection.
• The United States acquired Puerto Rico and Guam.
• Paid Spain $20 million for the Philippines.

Impact of the War

• The United States emerged as a global power post-war.
• Marked the decline of Spanish colonial influence.
• Elevated Theodore Roosevelt to war hero status for his leadership of the Rough Riders.
• Involved Buffalo Soldiers, African American troops, fighting alongside U.S. forces.

Aftermath and Philippine-American War

• Led to conflict between the United States and the Philippines from 1899 to 1901.
• The Filipinos sought independence, resulting in significant casualties on both sides.