The United States Declares War on Spain: April 25, 1898

On April 25, 1898, the United States formally declared war on Spain, marking the beginning of the Spanish-American War. This conflict was a pivotal moment in both American and Spanish history, as it signaled the emergence of the United States as a global power and the decline of Spain’s colonial empire.

Context and Prelude to War

The roots of the Spanish-American War can be traced back to the Cuban struggle for independence from Spain, which began in 1895. The Cuban War of Independence was characterized by brutal tactics employed by Spanish forces, including the reconcentration policy that forced Cuban civilians into camps, leading to widespread suffering and death.

The situation in Cuba attracted significant attention in the United States, fueled by sensationalist journalism known as “yellow journalism.” Newspapers owned by William Randolph Hearst and Joseph Pulitzer published exaggerated accounts of Spanish atrocities, swaying public opinion in favor of intervention.

Tensions escalated further with the mysterious explosion of the USS Maine in Havana Harbor on February 15, 1898. The Maine had been sent to protect American interests during the Cuban revolt. The explosion killed 266 American sailors and, despite a lack of conclusive evidence, was widely blamed on Spanish sabotage, further inflaming American public sentiment.

Declaration of War

In response to the growing clamor for action, President William McKinley, who had initially sought a diplomatic resolution, asked Congress for authority to intervene in Cuba. On April 20, 1898, Congress passed a joint resolution recognizing Cuban independence and demanding Spanish withdrawal. The resolution also included the Teller Amendment, which disclaimed any intention of annexing Cuba.

Spain, unwilling to relinquish its sovereignty over Cuba, severed diplomatic relations with the United States. On April 25, 1898, Congress formally declared war on Spain, retroactively dating the declaration to April 21.

Key Events of the War

The Spanish-American War was relatively short, lasting only about ten weeks. Key events included:

• The Battle of Manila Bay (May 1, 1898): Commodore George Dewey led the U.S. Asiatic Squadron to a decisive victory over the Spanish fleet in the Philippines, showcasing American naval power.

• The Invasion of Cuba: American forces, including the Rough Riders led by Theodore Roosevelt, landed in Cuba and engaged Spanish troops in battles such as the Battle of San Juan Hill.

• The Siege of Santiago (July 3, 1898): The U.S. Navy destroyed the Spanish Caribbean fleet, leading to the surrender of Santiago de Cuba.

Aftermath and Consequences

The Treaty of Paris, signed on December 10, 1898, officially ended the war. Under the treaty’s terms:

• Spain relinquished its claims to Cuba.
• The United States acquired Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines, marking a significant expansion of American influence and territory.

The war had profound implications:

• It marked the United States’ emergence as a world power with overseas territories.
• It sparked debates over imperialism and the nation’s role on the global stage.
• It led to the Philippine-American War as Filipinos resisted American control.

The Spanish-American War was a turning point in American history, reshaping the nation’s foreign policy and setting the stage for its 20th-century global engagements.