The Spanish-American War (1898) was an important conflict between the United States and the Spain, and its causes, processes, consequences, and effects were far-reaching and complex. These aspects are explored in more detail below:
1. The causes of the war
Colonial rivalry and the decline of the Spain colonial empire:
Spain’s colonial empire declined in the second half of the 19th century, especially in the American colonies such as Cuba and Puerto Rico, and local independence movements rose.
United States has grown economically and seeks greater influence in Latin America to strengthen its dominance in the Western Hemisphere.
The Driving Role of Journalism:
Yellow Reporter Incident: United States journalists William · Hirst and Joseph · Pulitzer reported on Spain’s brutal repression in Cuba through newspapers, triggering a public backlash and fueling public opinion on the war.
United States Foreign Policy and Strategic Interests:
The United States has expanded its overseas sphere of influence through war, particularly in the Caribbean and the Pacific.
The United States government hopes to resolve Cuba’s political turmoil through war and open trade routes to Asian markets.
2. The course of the war
Outbreak of War:
In April 1898, the United States Navy declared war on Spain after an incident in the port of Havana, triggering a formal military conflict.
The course of the war:
The United States Navy quickly defeated Spain’s fleet in Asia, notably in the Battle of Manila Bay in the Philippines.
On the Army side, the United States eventually forced Spain to surrender its naval base near Santiago through landing operations in Cuba.
Treaty of Paris:
On December 10, 1898, United States signed the Treaty of Paris with Spain, Spain relinquished Cuba, Puerto Rico, Guam and the Philippines, marking the official end of the war.
III. The outcome of the war
Territorial changes:
The United States acquired territories such as Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines, becoming a global imperial power.
International Impact:
The almost complete collapse of Spain’s colonial empire marked the end of Spain as a great power.
The rise of United States has brought new variables to the world landscape, especially in the geopolitical restructuring of the Pacific region.
4. Influence and reflection
United States:
The Spanish-American War strengthened United States’ national pride and overseas expansionism, setting a precedent for its later involvement in world affairs.
For United States, the war also marked the establishment of its role as a global power.
Latin America:
Regions such as Cuba and Puerto Rico have gained political autonomy, but in practice they are still heavily affected by United States economic and military influences.
Global Landscape:
The rise of United States has exacerbated competition and geopolitical complexity among global powers, especially in the Asia-Pacific region.
The Spanish-American War not only changed the international status of United States and Spain, but also profoundly affected the geopolitical pattern of Latin America and the world, becoming one of the important events in modern international relations.
