Spanish-American War Overview

This set of flashcards covers essential vocabulary and key figures related to the Spanish-American War, providing definitions and context for important terms.

José Martí

A Cuban nationalist and hero known for advocating for Cuba's independence from Spain and for his contributions to Latin American literature.

Valeriano Weyler

Spanish general who introduced brutal tactics against Cuban rebels, including reconcentration policies that led to the deaths of many civilians.

Reconcentration Policy

A strategy employed by the Spanish government in Cuba that involved forcing rural residents into camps, resulting in overcrowding and thousands of deaths.

Yellow Journalism

A style of news reporting that exaggerates events to increase newspaper sales, particularly prevalent during the Spanish-American War.

De Lôme Letter

A letter from the Spanish Ambassador criticizing President McKinley, which fueled American public opinion in favor of war with Spain.

USS Maine

An American battleship that sank in 1898 under mysterious circumstances, leading to increased calls for war against Spain.

Battle of Manila Bay

A decisive naval battle in which the U.S. fleet defeated the Spanish fleet on April 30, 1898, leading to American control over Manila.

Theodore Roosevelt and the Rough Riders

The U.S. cavalry regiment led by Theodore Roosevelt that played a significant role in the Spanish-American War, notably at the Battle of San Juan Hill.

Teller Amendment

A resolution stating that the U.S. would not annex Cuba but would help establish its independence.

Treaty of Paris (1898)

The agreement that ended the Spanish-American War, ceding Puerto Rico and Guam to the U.S. and allowing for the purchase of the Philippines.

Platt Amendment

A U.S. legislative provision (1901) that allowed for American intervention in Cuban affairs and established a U.S. military presence.

Guantanamo Bay

An American naval base in Cuba established under a lease agreement in 1903, still in use today.