The Fall of Manila: August 13, 1898

The fall of Manila on August 13, 1898, marked a pivotal moment in the Spanish-American War, effectively signaling the end of hostilities between the United States and Spain, although the formal peace treaty would be signed later. This event was a culmination of several months of conflict and strategic maneuvers in the Pacific and Caribbean.

Background

The Spanish-American War began in April 1898, primarily due to the United States’ intervention in the Cuban War of Independence and the explosion of the USS Maine in Havana Harbor. The conflict quickly expanded beyond the Caribbean, with the U.S. targeting Spanish holdings in the Pacific, particularly the Philippines.

Key Events Leading to the Fall of Manila

1. Battle of Manila Bay (May 1, 1898): The U.S. Asiatic Squadron, led by Commodore George Dewey, defeated the Spanish Pacific Squadron in a decisive naval battle. This victory gave the U.S. control of Manila Bay and set the stage for further operations in the Philippines.

2. Blockade and Siege: Following the naval victory, American forces, with the assistance of Filipino revolutionaries led by Emilio Aguinaldo, laid siege to the city of Manila. The Spanish forces, under Governor-General Basilio Augustín, were effectively isolated.

3. Arrival of Reinforcements: In June and July, American reinforcements arrived, including the VIII Corps under Major General Wesley Merritt, further strengthening the U.S. position.

The Capture of Manila

On August 13, 1898, American forces launched an assault on Manila. The attack was coordinated with a pre-arranged plan between the U.S. and Spanish commanders to minimize casualties and destruction. The Spanish, aware of their untenable position and the futility of further resistance, agreed to a mock battle, allowing the Americans to capture the city with minimal bloodshed.

The Mock Battle

• Negotiations: Prior to the assault, secret negotiations took place between American and Spanish commanders. The Spanish agreed to surrender after a token resistance to preserve their honor.
• The Assault: American troops, supported by naval gunfire, advanced on Manila. The Spanish offered limited resistance before surrendering the city.

Aftermath and Significance

• End of Hostilities: The fall of Manila effectively ended major combat operations in the Spanish-American War. However, the formal cessation of hostilities awaited the signing of the Treaty of Paris.
• Treaty of Paris (December 10, 1898): The treaty formally ended the war, with Spain ceding control of the Philippines, Guam, and Puerto Rico to the United States, and relinquishing its claim over Cuba.
• Impact on the Philippines: The capture of Manila and subsequent treaty marked the beginning of American colonial rule in the Philippines, leading to the Philippine-American War as Filipinos resisted U.S. sovereignty.

The fall of Manila was a significant turning point in the Spanish-American War, showcasing the United States’ emerging status as a global power and setting the stage for its increased involvement in international affairs.