The front page of the New York Journal and Advertiser is shown.

Question

The paper is from February 17, 1989 and the headlines are as follows:
Inside the masthead of the paper is the headline “$50,000 Reward. Who Destroyed the Maine? $50,000 Reward.” Under the newspaper masthead, the main headline, “Destruction of the War Ship Maine was the Work of an Enemy,” stretches across the entire paper. Under the main headline, printed on both sides of the paper, is the identical sub-headline “50,000 Reward! For the Detection of the Perpetrator of the Maine Outrage!” Under each of these sub-headlines is an article but the print is so small, the reader cannot make it out. In the middle, under the masthead, and between the two identical sub-headings it the additional subheading, “Assistant Secretary Roosevelt Convinced the Explosion was not as Accident.” This is followed with the information “The Journal offers $50,000 Reward for the Conviction of Criminals Who Sent 258 American Sailors to Their Death. Naval Officers Unanimous that the Ship was Destroyed on Purpose.”

Question
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. use race strategy

Answer 1

The headlines presented in the New York Journal and Advertiser from February 17, 1989, can be identified as examples of yellow journalism, which is a style of journalism that emphasizes sensationalism over factual reporting, often to provoke an emotional response. The specific elements of yellow journalism in the front page of the paper include:

1. Sensational Headlines: The repeated phrases “$50,000 Reward. Who Destroyed the Maine?” and “Destruction of the War Ship Maine was the Work of an Enemy” are intentionally provocative and designed to incite fear, anger, and a thirst for vengeance among readers.

2. Implied Conspiracy: The assertion that the Maine was destroyed by an enemy, coupled with the significant reward offered for the detection of the perpetrator, suggests a conspiracy theory. This plays into existing sentiments of nationalism and anti-Spanish sentiment at the time, painting Spain as the villain responsible for the tragedy.

3. Appeal to Emotion: The language used evokes strong emotional reactions—anger at the perceived enemy and sorrow for the loss of American lives. The mention of "258 American Sailors" emphasizes their sacrifice, making it more likely for the public to rally behind a call for action.

4. Lack of Factual Reporting: The articles mentioned are illegible, indicating that the newspaper may prioritize emotional appeal over in-depth reporting. This tactic is common in yellow journalism, where sensationalism takes precedence over accuracy.

Role in U.S. Involvement in the Spanish-American War

These headlines and stories played a significant role in shaping public opinion and ultimately U.S. involvement in the Spanish-American War through several strategies:

1. Mobilizing Public Sentiment: By portraying the destruction of the USS Maine as a deliberate act of aggression by Spain, the Journal tapped into existing nationalistic fervor, whipping up public sentiment for war. This instigated a rallying cry among citizens who felt a strong need to retaliate against a perceived enemy.

2. Manipulating Media Influence: The power of the press during this period was immense, with newspapers having the capability to shape narratives and influence political decisions. The Journal's framing of the incident pressured government leaders to consider military action against Spain, as public support was being rapidly generated.

3. Creating a War Climate: The repeated emphasis on villainy and calls for justice (e.g., the $50,000 reward) contributed to creating a war atmosphere where diplomatic solutions were overshadowed by a desire for revenge, effectively making war appear as the only viable response to a national affront.

4. Racial and Cultural Narratives: The framing of the Spanish as the enemy not only played on existing sentiments but also reinforced racial and cultural stereotypes that were common in the era. This rhetoric was part of a broader narrative of American exceptionalism and justified an imperialistic approach toward Spain’s colonies.

In summary, this example of yellow journalism was pivotal in fostering a climate of opinion that contributed significantly to the U.S. decision to engage in the Spanish-American War. The sensationalized portrayal of events helped mobilize public and political support for military intervention, showcasing the power of media in shaping historical outcomes.