The United States intervened in the Spanish-American War in 1898 for several reasons:
1. Protection of American Interests: The United States had significant economic interests in Cuba, particularly in sugar plantations and trade. The ongoing Cuban War of Independence against Spanish rule posed a threat to these interests and disrupted trade. By intervening, the U.S. aimed to protect its economic investments and secure its commercial influence in the region.
2. Humanitarian Concerns: The Spanish government's harsh policies in suppressing the Cuban rebellion led to widespread atrocities and civilian casualties. Reports of Spanish atrocities, including the concentration of Cuban civilians in unsanitary camps, gained significant attention in the American press and stirred public outrage. The U.S. government felt pressure from the public and some politicians to intervene on humanitarian grounds to alleviate the suffering of the Cuban people.
3. Yellow Journalism: The late 19th century saw the rise of sensationalist journalism, particularly in newspapers like William Randolph Hearst's New York Journal and Joseph Pulitzer's New York World. These newspapers engaged in "yellow journalism," exaggerating and sensationalizing news to boost circulation. The coverage of the Cuban conflict in these newspapers further inflamed public sentiment and contributed to the pressure for U.S. intervention.
4. Political Motives: The U.S. had growing imperialistic ambitions and saw an opportunity to expand its influence and acquire new territories in the Caribbean and beyond. Cuba's strategic location in the region made it an attractive target. Additionally, some politicians saw intervention as a way to divert public attention from domestic issues and rally support for the expansionist agenda of President William McKinley.
Cuban War of Independence
The United States did not intervene in the Cuban War of Independence, which took place from 1895 to 1898. However, the U.S. played a significant role in the aftermath of the conflict, leading to the establishment of the Republic of Cuba and the U.S. acquiring control over the Guantanamo Bay Naval Base.