<aside> <img src="/icons/bookmark-outline_gray.svg" alt="/icons/bookmark-outline_gray.svg" width="40px" /> In this lesson, you will…

1. Examine causes, course, and consequences of the Spanish-American War.
2. Examine the reach of American Empire through war and diplomacy in the Philippines and Cuba

Big Question: How did the United States assert control of its empire following the Spanish-American War?

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The Spanish American War

Since American independence, the United States began a trade relationship with Cuba, particularly for agricultural goods such as sugar cane amongst other commodities. This interaction was primarily due to Cuba's abundant production and the US's increasing consumption of such goods.

Despite this, Cuba was not a free nation but remained under the domination of Spain, acting as one of its colonies.

However, as the 19th century drew to a close, a significant shift began to occur within Cuba. An independence movement started to gather momentum and became increasingly popular amongst the populace of Cuba. This was a response to the desire for freedom and self-governance, a sentiment that was echoing around the world at the time, particularly in the 1890s.

In 1898, US President William McKinley sought to support Cuba’s independence movement.

To protect American business interests and show American support, McKinley ordered the new battleship USS Maine to Havana.

To protect American business interests and show American support, McKinley ordered the new battleship USS Maine to Havana.

On 15 February 1898, a powder magazine under the bow battery accidentally exploded, sinking the Maine.

American war hawks (politicians that wanted to go war) and newspapers blamed Spain for sinking the Maine.

1st United States Volunteer Cavalry, known as the Rough Riders, was among the first regiments raised for a small, underpowered US Army.

Theodore Roosevelt volunteers as a Rough Rider – elevating him to national celebrity.

The United States won the war in less than 5 months

Consequences of the Spanish-American War

• Cuba gained their independence – under US control, however.
• America becomes a world power after defeating Spain.
• Territories acquired by the US: Puerto Rico, Guam, The Philippines

American Empire

The United States’ new territories stretched its influence and naval bases far into the Pacific.

When Theodore Roosevelt became president, he used Big Stick Diplomacy to develop an active foreign policy with a strong navy to accomplish goals