8.4 The USA as a World Power: The Spanish-American War (1898)

1. The Rise of American Imperialism:

⭐Economic Motives: The late 19th century saw the US economy boom. American businesses sought new markets and raw materials, particularly in the Caribbean and Pacific.
⭐Strategic Interests: The US Navy, expanding rapidly, needed overseas bases to protect its growing commercial interests and trade routes.
⭐Social Darwinism: The idea of "survival of the fittest" applied to nations, fueled the belief that the US, as a strong nation, should expand its influence and power.
⭐Yellow Journalism: Sensationalized, often exaggerated news reports in newspapers, fueled public support for war against Spain through stories of Spanish brutality in Cuba.
⭐The Cuban Revolution: Cuba's struggle for independence from Spain resonated with Americans who saw parallels to their own fight for freedom.

2. The Explosion of the USS Maine:

In February 1898, the USS Maine, a US battleship, exploded in Havana Harbor, Cuba.
Though the cause remains debated, the sinking was blamed on Spain, igniting American public outrage and strengthening calls for war.
This event, fueled by yellow journalism, turned public opinion against Spain and pushed the US towards war.

3. The Spanish-American War:

⭐A Short but Decisive Conflict: The war lasted only 10 weeks, from April to August 1898.
⭐Major Battles: Key battles took place in Cuba (Santiago de Cuba), Puerto Rico, and the Philippines.
⭐US Victory: The US Navy, led by figures like Admiral Dewey, achieved decisive victories against the Spanish fleet.
⭐Cuban Independence: The war resulted in Cuba's independence from Spain.
⭐Spanish Colonies Acquired by the US: The US gained control of Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines.

4. The Impact and Aftermath of the War:

⭐Expansion of US Power: The war marked the US's entry onto the world stage as a major power. It acquired new territories, expanded its influence, and established itself as a global force.
⭐The Philippine-American War: The US annexation of the Philippines sparked a brutal conflict with Filipino insurgents fighting for their independence. This war lasted longer than the Spanish-American War and resulted in significant loss of life.
⭐Debate Over Imperialism: The war sparked debate about the morality of US expansionism, with some arguing that it violated the principles of self-determination and freedom.
⭐The Rise of Anti-Imperialism: The war gave rise to the anti-imperialist movement in the US, which opposed the acquisition of colonies and the expansion of American power.

5. Long-Term Consequences:

⭐The US as a World Power: The Spanish-American War helped solidify the US's status as a global power, setting the stage for its future involvement in world affairs.
⭐Increased Military Spending: The war led to a significant increase in US military spending, further expanding its military capabilities.
⭐The Emergence of New Challenges: The war and the subsequent acquisition of new territories posed new challenges for the US in terms of governance, administration, and cultural integration.

In conclusion, the Spanish-American War was a pivotal moment in American history. It marked the US's transition from isolationist to global power, with significant consequences for both domestic politics and international relations. The war also sparked intense debate about the morality of imperialism and the role of the US in the world.