Spanish-American War Overview

Overview

This lecture covers the causes, course, and consequences of the Spanish-American War, focusing on U.S. expansionism, the conflict in Cuba and the Philippines, and the emergence of American imperialism.

Causes of War and U.S. Expansionism

• The U.S. sought overseas outlets for expansion after the frontier closed, driven by economic and nationalistic motives.
• American politicians, including Roosevelt, saw war as a means to unite the country and gain international status.
• Competition with European empires fueled the desire for colonies and naval power.
• The U.S. had long coveted Cuba, due to its proximity and economic potential.
• The Cuban struggle for independence from Spain inspired sympathy and interventionist attitudes in the U.S.

Cuban War for Independence

• The Cuban rebellion (Ten Years’ War and renewed revolt in 1895) was led by figures like Jose Marti and Maximo Gomez.
• Marti promoted unity among Cubans regardless of race.
• Spanish General Weyler’s reconcentration policy caused humanitarian outrage and was widely reported in U.S. media.

The Role of the Media

• "Yellow journalism" led by William Randolph Hearst sensationalized Spanish atrocities and helped push public opinion toward war.
• Reporting on incidents like the imprisonment of Evangelina Cisneros and the explosion of USS Maine increased pressure for U.S. intervention.

Outbreak and Course of the Spanish-American War

• Following the explosion of USS Maine in Havana Harbor, the U.S. blamed Spain and declared war in April 1898.
• Commodore Dewey’s victory in Manila Bay signaled U.S. naval strength.
• The war in Cuba saw poorly prepared U.S. volunteer troops, including the Rough Riders led by Theodore Roosevelt.
• Major battles included El Caney and San Juan Heights, with significant contributions from African-American regiments.
• The Spanish fleet was destroyed at Santiago Bay, leading to the surrender of Spanish forces.

U.S. Occupation and Aftermath in Cuba and the Philippines

• Cuban and Filipino insurgents were excluded from final victories and surrenders.
• The U.S. occupied both Cuba and the Philippines, denying immediate independence.
• The Treaty of Paris (1898) transferred control of Cuba, Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines to the U.S. for $20 million.
• The Filipino-American War erupted in 1899 due to resistance to U.S. rule, resulting in brutal guerrilla warfare and high casualties.

Debate over Imperialism

• Intense debate in the U.S. questioned the morality and constitutionality of acquiring overseas colonies.
• Anti-imperialists, including former President Cleveland and Andrew Carnegie, opposed U.S. expansionism.

Consolidation of U.S. Imperial Rule

• The Platt Amendment made Cuba a U.S. protectorate, limiting Cuban sovereignty.
• The U.S. imposed colonial governance in the Philippines, leading to further resistance and violent reprisals.
• Atrocities committed during the Philippine-American War led to public outcry and congressional investigations.

Long-Term Consequences

• The Spanish-American War marked the emergence of the U.S. as a world power with overseas colonies.
• Both Cuba and the Philippines experienced continued U.S. influence, with eventual independence for the Philippines after WWII and Cuba in 1934.
• The legacy of U.S. intervention shaped 20th-century international relations and U.S. foreign policy.

Key Terms & Definitions

• Reconcentration — Spanish policy of forcing Cuban civilians into camps to cut support for rebels.
• Yellow Journalism — Sensationalist news reporting aimed at influencing public opinion.
• Rough Riders — Volunteer cavalry regiment led by Theodore Roosevelt in Cuba.
• Platt Amendment — U.S. policy limiting Cuban sovereignty post-war.
• Treaty of Paris (1898) — Ended the Spanish-American War, ceding territories to the U.S.
• Filipino-American War — Conflict between U.S. forces and Filipino independence fighters after 1899.

Action Items / Next Steps

• Review the causes and consequences of the Spanish-American War for quiz preparation.
• Read about the role of media and debate over American imperialism in assigned textbook chapters.
• Study major battles and key figures for identification questions.