The United States went to war with Spain in 1898, primarily due to a combination of factors, including economic interests, imperialistic aspirations, and humanitarian concerns. Here are the key reasons:
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Cuban Struggle for Independence: The Cuban War of Independence against Spanish rule was a significant catalyst. Reports of Spanish atrocities against Cuban civilians stirred sympathy in the United States, leading many Americans to support the Cuban cause for independence.
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Yellow Journalism: The sensationalist reporting by American newspapers, known as "yellow journalism," played a crucial role in shaping public opinion. Newspapers such as those owned by William Randolph Hearst and Joseph Pulitzer published exaggerated and often fabricated stories about Spanish brutality, fueling outrage among the American public.
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The Sinking of the USS Maine: The immediate trigger for the war was the explosion of the USS Maine in Havana Harbor on February 15, 1898. While the cause of the explosion was unclear, sensationalist media blamed Spain, leading to a rallying cry of "Remember the Maine!" which galvanized public support for war.
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Economic Interests: The U.S. had significant economic interests in Cuba, including investments in sugar plantations and other industries. A stable and independent Cuba was seen as beneficial to U.S. economic interests.
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Imperialistic Ambitions: The war was also part of a broader trend of American expansionism and imperialism during the late 19th century. The U.S. sought to extend its influence in the Caribbean and the Pacific, and victory over Spain offered a chance to acquire territories such as Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines.
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Humanitarian Concerns: A growing humanitarian movement in the U.S. advocated for intervention to stop the suffering of the Cuban people under Spanish rule. Many Americans believed that it was their moral duty to help liberate Cuba.
The war officially began on April 25, 1898, and ended with the signing of the Treaty of Paris on December 10, 1898. The treaty resulted in Spain ceding control of Cuba, Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines to the United States, marking a significant expansion of U.S. territory and influence.