The Spanish American War

The Spanish American War

by Joseph Stromberg

AudioBook – 2 CDs 

John Hay, American statesman, was quoted as saying the Spanish American War was “a splendid little war.”  This was due to the fact the war lasted a little over100 days and America gained Guam, Puerto Rico, Philippines and Cuba. In addition this is a step towards becoming a global power.

In 1898 Americans were calling for a New Manifest Destiny. American Industry was thriving and the States needed new markets, outside our boundaries. At the same time, Cuba inhabitants were fighting for independence from Spain. American newspapers were using yellow journalism to sensationalize stories of appalling conditions in Cuba. Thus the idea of war against Spain was favored by most Americans.

In Feb 1898, the USS Maine, sank in the Havana Harbor. Although the reason for the sinking was unclear, the popular opinion was to blame Spain. A few months later, Congress declared war.