Overview
This lecture covers the causes, events, and outcomes of the Spanish American War, highlighting US involvement in Cuba, Puerto Rico, the Philippines, and Guam.
Background to War
- By late 19th century, most of Latin America was independent, but Cuba, Puerto Rico, and the Philippines were still Spanish colonies.
- Cuba and Puerto Rico had movements or wars seeking independence from Spain.
- The US had business interests in Cuba and sent the USS Maine to protect its investments.
Outbreak of the Spanish American War
- The USS Maine exploded near Havana; US media blamed Spain, stirring public support for war.
- Congress passed the Teller Amendment, stating the US would not annex Cuba.
- War between the US and Spain began and ended in 1898.
Aftermath in Cuba
- The Platt Amendment was inserted into Cuba's constitution, granting the US the right to veto Cuban laws and maintain a military base (Guantanamo Bay).
- Cuba became a US protectorate; the US reserved the right to intervene militarily.
Puerto Rico and Guam
- Unlike Cuba, Puerto Rico was annexed by the US after the war.
- The Foraker Act (1901) put Puerto Rico under US control but did not grant it territory status or statehood rights.
- The Jones Act (1917) gave Puerto Ricans US citizenship and heavily restricted their trade to US ships and ports.
The Philippines and the Philippine-American War
- The US helped remove Spain from the Philippines, then excluded Filipinos from government, leading to a war for independence (1898-1902).
- Over 200,000 Filipinos died; only 379 US combat deaths, most US deaths were from disease.
- The Philippines was not made a territory but was controlled by the US until 1946.
- Independence was granted with restrictions (Bell Trade Act), limiting economic autonomy and allowing permanent US military bases.
Public Perception and Reality of the War
- The US public was falsely told Spain attacked the USS Maine; later investigations found the explosion was likely accidental.
- The main fighting was against Filipino rebels, not Spanish forces.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Teller Amendment — US promise not to annex Cuba after the war.
- Platt Amendment — Gave US control over Cuban laws and allowed a permanent military base.
- Foraker Act (1901) — Law placing Puerto Rico under US governance without territory or statehood rights.
- Jones Act (1917) — Granted US citizenship to Puerto Ricans and restricted their trade.
- Bell Trade Act — Required the Philippines to give US businesses economic advantages after independence.
- Protectorate — A country controlled and protected by another.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the details and impacts of the Teller, Platt, Foraker, and Jones Acts.
- Prepare for further discussion on Puerto Rico's status and the economic effects of US laws.