Causes of Spanish American War
Spain had once been a powerful empire but now only had four colonies left: Cuba, Philippines,
Guam, and Puerto Rico.
Cuba and the Philippines wanted independence. Spain treated the Cubans very badly. Cuba
revolted against Spain many times but was always defeated.
The first battle of the Spanish American War was in the Philippines, NOT Cuba. (The Filipinos
wanted independence too!)
The next battle was in Cuba.
Why did the US get involved?
1. Protection of American business interests in Cuba
2. American support of Cuban rebels to gain independence from Spain
3. Rising tension as a result of the sinking of the USS Maine in Havana Harbor
4. Exaggerated news reports of events (yellow journalism)