Spanish-American War: Causes, Key Battles, and Global Impact

What was the primary outcome of the Spanish-American War?

The growth of United States power and influence around the world.

What is Yellow Journalism?

Sensationalized stories and headlines that exaggerated Spanish atrocities or manipulated public opinion.

Who was William Randolph Hearst?

Publisher of the New York Journal who covered the USS Maine attack.

What does Jingoism refer to?

Aggressive nationalism.

Who were the Rough Riders?

An Army infantry unit composed of volunteers led by Theodore Roosevelt.

What were the economic interests of the U.S. in Cuba prior to the war?

The U.S. had $50 million invested in sugar plantations in Cuba.

What was the USS Maine sent to Havana for?

To protect American interests.

What incident led to the rallying cry 'Remember the Maine!'?

The explosion of the USS Maine, which killed 266 of 360 American sailors.

What did President McKinley request from Congress on April 11, 1898?

Authority to use force against Spain.

What was the Teller Amendment?

It stated that the U.S. would not annex Cuba.

What was the outcome of the war in terms of American deaths?

Total American deaths were 3,000, with 380 combat deaths.

What did the Treaty of Paris (1898) grant to Cuba?

Cuba gained independence.

What territories did the U.S. gain from the Treaty of Paris (1898)?

Philippines, Puerto Rico, and Guam.

What was the significance of the Great White Fleet?

It demonstrated America's military power.

What is Big Stick Diplomacy?

The idea that America needs a strong military to deter aggression and ensure regional stability.

What does Dollar Diplomacy refer to?

Increasing investments in Central America businesses without military intervention.

What is Moral Diplomacy?

Promoting American democratic values and using economic pressure rather than military force.

What was the Foraker Act (1900) concerning Puerto Rico?

Established a civil government with a governor and legislature; citizenship status was unclear.

What did the Platt Amendment (1902) allow the U.S. to do in Cuba?

Intervene on behalf of Cuba and set up a naval base at Guantanamo Bay.

What was the purpose of the Panama Canal?

To reduce travel time for ships between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.

How did the U.S. secure control over the Panama Canal?

By supporting the Panamanian rebellion and negotiating control of the canal zone.

When was the Panama Canal opened?

In 1914.