Spanish-American War: Key Events and Concepts

Why did the United States become interested in Cuba in the late 1800s?

• Cuba was a major source of oil for the US.

• Cuba was a popular tourist destination for Americans.

• Cuba was close to Florida and had American residents and a Catholic population.

• Cuba offered cheap labor for American businesses.

What was happening in Cuba in 1895 that caught the attention of the American press?

• Cuba was experiencing a major economic boom.

• Cuba was fighting for independence from Spain.

• Cuba had discovered new gold mines.

• Cuba was hosting the Olympic Games.

What types of reasons led Americans to be deeply upset about the situation in Cuba?

• Only economic reasons, as Cuba was a trading partner.

• Only social and religious reasons.

• Social, religious, political, and economic reasons.

• Only political reasons, due to Spain's government.

What action did President William McKinley take in 1898 to protect American interests in Cuba?

• He sent a diplomatic envoy to negotiate with Spain.

• He imposed economic sanctions on Spain.

• He sent the battleship USS Maine to Havana.

• He declared war on Spain immediately.

What was the immediate public belief about the cause of the USS Maine explosion?

• It was an accidental internal explosion.

• It was attacked by a Spanish submarine mine.

• It was sabotaged by Cuban rebels.

• It sank due to a severe storm.

What term describes the sensational and often exaggerated reporting by newspapers that fueled public support for war?

• Investigative journalism

• Objective reporting

• Yellow journalism

• Editorial commentary

What was the main slogan used by the American public and press to rally support for intervention in Cuba after the USS Maine incident?

• "Freedom for Cuba!"

• "Remember the Maine!"

• "America First!"

• "No More Spanish Rule!"

What event ultimately led Congress to declare war on Spain in April 1898?

• Spain's refusal to negotiate with the US.

• The sinking of the USS Maine.

• A direct attack by Spain on US soil.

• Cuba's declaration of independence.

Besides the Caribbean, where else did the Spanish-American War expand?

• The Atlantic Ocean

• The Pacific Ocean

• The Indian Ocean

• The Mediterranean Sea