The Spanish-American War

The Spanish-American War in 1898 was a short conflict between the United States and Spain, sparked by issues like Spanish control of Cuba, American sympathy for Cuban independence, and the explosion of the USS Maine. The war resulted in the U.S. defeating Spain, gaining territories like Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines. It marked the U.S. becoming a global power with overseas colonies. The war lasted about four months, highlighting America’s expanding influence and evolving into a more active international role.