Post-War Controversies and Annexation

Treaty of Paris and Controversy

• The Treaty of Paris included:

  • U.S. acquisition of Puerto Rico and Guam.

  • U.S. acquisition of the Philippines for $20 million.

• The war's avowed purpose was to liberate Cuba, leading to mixed reactions about annexing the Philippines.

Annexation Dispute

• Public opinion was divided into imperialists (favoring annexation) and anti-imperialists (opposing it).

• Anti-imperialists argued annexation violated the Declaration of Independence by denying Filipino rights.

• Treaty ratification required a two-thirds Senate vote:

  • On February 6, 1899, it passed 57 to 27, barely meeting the requirement.

• Filipino nationalists, led by Emilio Aguinaldo, opposed U.S. rule, resulting in guerrilla warfare that lasted until 1902.

Continued Imperialism and Legal Questions

• The Anti-Imperialist League formed to oppose expansion.

• Legal questions arose regarding the constitutional rights of territories acquired.

• Discussion focused on whether the U.S. Constitution applied to new territories.