Major funding by The Corporation for Public Broadcasting, National Endowment for the Humanities, Viewer support, and the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation.
Background music throughout.
The Prelude to War
McKinley desired Cuban Independence, but Spanish control persisted.
Theodore Roosevelt, Assistant Secretary of the Navy, advocated for war, foreseeing global power status.
Cuban desire for inclusion in the U.S.; Filipino expectations of liberation.
The U.S. Expansion and Industrial Age
1890s America was growing into a new industrial age.
World's Columbian Exposition showcased American innovations and products.
Economic depression followed shortly after, leading to expansionist ideas.
Frederick Jackson Turner's lecture suggested looking beyond U.S. borders for new opportunities.
Imperialist Race
The global race for colonies included Britain, France, Russia, Germany, and Japan.
Spain's possessions dwindled, retaining only Cuba, Puerto Rico, Philippines, and Guam.
U.S. politicians eyed Cuba's sugar industry, influenced by John Quincy Adams’ vision.
Cuban Revolution
The 10 Years War (1868-1878) for Cuban independence failed but laid the groundwork for future uprisings.
José Martí, a Cuban poet, and journalist, became a key figure for Cuban independence.
Martí's vision united Cubans across class and race.
Martí was killed early during the rebellion, bolstering the revolutionary spirit.
Spanish Military Actions
Spanish General Weyler's reconcentration policy led to significant civilian casualties.
U.S. newspapers, notably The New York Journal by William Randolph Hearst, sensationalized Spanish actions.
U.S. Public Opinion and Media Influence
Hearst's newspapers rallied public opinion towards Cuban independence and war with Spain.
The story of Evangelina Cisneros captured American sympathy and media attention.
The Path to War
President McKinley sought peaceful resolutions but faced pressure for military action.
The explosion of USS Maine in Havana Harbor intensified calls for war.
Roosevelt and other political leaders pushed towards conflict.
The War Begins
U.S. Congress declared war on Spain in April 1898.
Commodore George Dewey led a surprise attack on the Spanish fleet in Manila Bay, marking a significant victory.
The Cuban Campaign
U.S. forces, including Roosevelt's Rough Riders, landed in Cuba, pushing towards Santiago.
Battles at El Caney and San Juan Hill were pivotal.
African American regiments played crucial roles, despite facing racial discrimination.
Philippine Insurrection
Emilio Aguinaldo led Filipino forces against Spain, later against American occupation.
Confusion and betrayal marked the American takeover.
Treaty of Paris and Aftermath
The Treaty of Paris in December 1898 ended the war, ceded Philippines, Guam, and Puerto Rico to the U.S.
The U.S. emerged as a global power, sparking debates on imperialism.
The Anti-Imperialist League opposed U.S. colonial ambitions, highlighting moral and democratic concerns.
Legacy and Long-term Implications
The war marked the beginning of American imperialism, with significant impacts on global politics.
The U.S. acquired territories led to future conflicts, notably in the Philippines during WWII.
Cuba gained independence in 1902 but remained under U.S. influence.
The Platt Amendment restricted Cuban sovereignty.
Conclusion
The Spanish-American War reshaped U.S. foreign policy and global standing.
It raised enduring questions about America's role as an imperial power.