What was the prominent cause of the Spanish-American War in 1898? 🔊
The prominent cause of the Spanish-American War in 1898 was the United States' intervention in Cuba's struggle for independence from Spain. Growing American sympathy for the Cuban rebels, coupled with sensationalist journalism (often called "yellow journalism") that exaggerated atrocities committed by Spanish forces, fueled public outrage. The sinking of the USS Maine in Havana Harbor in February 1898 further escalated tensions, leading the U.S. to declare war on Spain in April of that year. The conflict resulted in a swift victory for the U.S., leading to significant territorial acquisitions, including Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines.
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