1. + Spanish American War

2. + Background/Contributing Factors Cuban revolt against Spain Cubans revolted to gain independence from Spanish rule Many Americans sympathized with Cubans Media influence Journalists sensationalized what was happening in Cuba USS Maine incident American ship, the USS Maine, exploded in Havana’s harbor Cause for explosion unknown Spanish were blamed

3. + The Rough Riders Volunteer regiment in the Spanish American War led by Theodore Roosevelt Only volunteer regiment to see combat

4. + Aftermath United States won “A splendid little war” Cuba Platt Amendment – Cuba remained independent, but U.S. had some control over their affairs Established U.S. naval bases Puerto Rico Became U.S. protectorate Philippines Became U.S. colony until 1946