Spanish American War video questions

Describe the conditions in the reconcentration camps established by General Valeriano Weyler.

Answer explanation

1. The conditions in the camps were inadequate food, supplies, housing, and medical treatment, leading to many deaths. (00:01:04)

What was the nickname given to General Valeriano Weyler and why was he called that?

Answer explanation

1. General Weyler was nicknamed "The Butcher" for his brutal treatment of the Cuban people. (00:01:28)

Who were Joseph Pulitzer and William Randolph Hearst, and what role did they play in the events leading up to the war?

Answer explanation

1. Joseph Pulitzer and William Randolph Hearst were newspaper publishers who used sensationalism to drive public interest in the war. (00:01:28)

Explain what Yellow Journalism is and how it influenced public opinion about the war.

Answer explanation

1. Yellow Journalism involved sensationalist reporting that exaggerated events to sway public opinion towards war. (00:02:53)

What was the significance of the USS Maine in the context of the war?

Answer explanation

1. The USS Maine was sent to protect American interests in Cuba and its explosion was a catalyst for war. (00:02:11)

How did Theodore Roosevelt become involved in the war, and what actions did he take?

Answer explanation

1. Theodore Roosevelt resigned from his position to lead the Rough Riders and fought in Cuba. (00:04:02)

What did the Teller Amendment state regarding Cuba's future?

Answer explanation

1. The Teller Amendment stated that the U.S. would not annex Cuba but support its independence. (00:04:45)

What were the main causes of death for American soldiers during the war?

Answer explanation

1. Many soldiers died from disease and poor food conditions rather than combat. (00:05:53)

What was the Treaty of Paris?

Answer explanation

1. The Treaty of Paris ended the war, resulting in Spain ceding territories like the Philippines and Puerto Rico to the U.S. (00:06:24)

What was the Platt Amendment? What impact do you think this had on Cuban independence?

Answer explanation

1. The Platt Amendment allowed the U.S. to intervene in Cuban affairs and maintain a military base there, despite Cuba's independence. (00:07:31)