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Using the image of the front page and the knowledge you attained from the lesson, identify the headlines that could be described as yellow journalism and explain how these headlines and their stories might have played a major role in U.S. involvement in the Spanish-American War. In a student's understanding.

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While I can't see the specific image of the front page you're referring to, I can explain what yellow journalism is and how it might have influenced U.S. involvement in the Spanish-American War.

Yellow Journalism: This term refers to sensationalist newspaper reporting that exaggerates or fabricates news to attract readers and increase sales. During the late 19th century, two major newspaper publishers, William Randolph Hearst and Joseph Pulitzer, were known for using yellow journalism to push their agendas.

Example Headlines: Although I can’t see the page, typical examples you might find during that time include sensational phrases like "Spanish Brutality!" or "Cuban Martyrs!" These headlines often highlighted the plight of Cuban revolutionaries and portrayed the Spanish government as ruthless oppressors.

Impact on U.S. Involvement:

  1. Raising Public Sentiment: The exaggerated stories about Spanish atrocities, particularly in Cuba, stirred strong emotions among American readers. Graphic descriptions of violence and suffering aimed to elicit sympathy for the Cuban people and anger towards Spain.

  2. Creating a War Atmosphere: The headlines often painted a picture of an urgent humanitarian crisis that needed immediate American intervention, fostering a sense of moral obligation among the public and policymakers. By framing the situation as a noble cause, yellow journalism helped rally support for military action.

  3. Influencing Government Action: Prominent politicians and military leaders paid attention to public opinion influenced by these sensational reports. The constant barrage of stories about Spanish cruelty contributed to a climate that made war more politically acceptable.

  4. The USS Maine Incident: After the explosion of the USS Maine in Havana Harbor, yellow journalism played a crucial role in blaming Spain without solid evidence. Headlines suggesting that "Spanish treachery" was the cause fueled public outrage and pushed the U.S. government toward declaring war.

In summary, yellow journalism significantly influenced American public opinion and government decisions leading up to the Spanish-American War by sensationalizing events and fostering a narrative that favored intervention in Cuba. This ultimately helped the U.S. emerge as an imperial power on the global stage.