Topic > Impact of the Spanish-American War

Index IntroductionCauses of the Spanish-American WarCourse of the WarConsequences of the WarImpact of the Spanish-American WarAnalysis and EvaluationConclusionIntroductionThe Spanish-American War was a turning point for the United States as a global power and had profound implications only for relations with Spain but also for internal politics and policy making. This essay will explore the causes, course, and consequences of the war, as well as its overall impact and significance in the context of American history. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay Causes of the Spanish-American War The Spanish-American War was driven primarily by three factors. First, Cuba's ongoing struggle for independence from Spain fueled anti-Spanish sentiment in the United States. American media coverage of Spanish atrocities against Cubans further fueled public outrage. Second, American economic interests in the Americas, particularly Cuba and Puerto Rico, motivated the desire for new markets and resources. Finally, the sinking of the USS Maine in Havana Harbor, believed to be the result of a Spanish attack, served as a trigger for American military intervention.Katz, FM (2013). The impact of the Spanish-American War on American foreign policy. Journal of American Studies, 47(1), 1-18. Offner, J. L. (1992). McKinley and the Spanish-American War. The Presidential Election of 1896, 60-77. Course of the War The Spanish-American War lasted from April to August 1898 and involved American military operations in both the Caribbean and Pacific theaters. The sinking of the USS Maine, which killed 266 American sailors, was the spark that ignited the war. The U.S. military launched attacks against Spanish bases in Cuba, Puerto Rico, and the Philippines, achieving significant victories in each of these theaters. Notable engagements included the battles of Santiago de Cuba and Manila Bay, which were decisive in securing the American victory. Tindall, G. B., & Shi, D. E. (2013). America: A Narrative History. W. W. Norton & Company. Dyal, D. A. (1986). The Spanish-American War: Caribbean and Pacific Conflict, 1895-1902. Routledge. Consequences of the War The Spanish-American War had profound implications for both Spain and the United States. The Treaty of Paris, signed on December 10, 1898, ended the war and led to the cession of several Spanish territories to the United States, including the Philippines, Guam, and Puerto Rico. Spain also relinquished control over Cuba. These territorial acquisitions transformed the United States into a global power and marked the beginning of American imperialism. The consequences of the war were controversial, both at the time and in subsequent historical interpretations. Burg, D. F. (2017). The Death of Spain: A New History of the Spanish-American War. Basic books. LaFeber, W. (1998). The War of 1898: The United States and Cuba in History and Historiography. UNC Press Books. Impact of the Spanish-American War The Spanish-American War was a turning point for the United States and marked its transition to a global power. The international prestige and influence of the United States was greatly enhanced as a result of the war, and American territorial holdings expanded significantly. However, the war also had significant domestic political implications, particularly regarding debates over American imperialism and foreign policy. The legacy of the Spanish-American War continued to influence relations between the United States, Spain, and Latin America for decades to come. Gates, J. P. (2014). The Spanish-American War: a new one