1. The Spanish- American War Causes and Effects of the First American Conflict of the 20 th Century

2. Cubans War for Independence  Cubans, recognizing the weakening of the Spanish government, begins rebelling for their own independence.  Supported by many Americans invested in Cuba as a new trading partner, Jose Marti leads a civil war.

3. Yellow Journalism Adds to the Cause  American newspapermen, Joseph Pulitzer and W.R. Hearst “sensationalize” stories about the Cuban.  Known as “yellow journalism,” the press creates sympathy for Cuban efforts.  The main purpose of yellow journalism is to sell newspapers, but it also stoked the fires of war.

4. U.S.S. Maine Sent to Cuba  The U.S. warns Spain to end this rebellion quickly.  Due to the outcry brought on by the yellow journalism, President McKinley sends the U.S.S. Maine to Havana harbor to protect American citizens in Cuba.

5. Spanish Ambassador Insults U.S.  The Spanish Ambassador to the U.S., Enrique Dupuy de Lome, writes a letter calling McKinley weak and stupid.  Hearst publishes the letter, calling it the “Worst Insult to the U.S. in it’s History.”  American nationalism is enflamed.

6. U.S.S. Maine Explodes  The U.S.S. Maine in Havana blows up after coming in contact with a mine, killing 266 navy men.  With newspapers fueling the flames of war with the cry “Remember the Maine,” McKinley asks Congress to go to war.

7. WAR in the Philippines !  In the Philippine Islands, Commodore George Dewey launches a surprise attack against the once formidable Spanish Navy, wiping them out with zero American casualties.  In another fight against imperialism, Philippino’s led a successful ground attack against the Spanish.

8. WAR in Cuba!  Unlike the Philippines, the ground war in Cuba did not come as easily.  U.S. troops were not well trained, used obsolete weapons, and wore heavy wool uniforms.  Many men became sick from rotted food and contaminated meat.

9. Rough Riders Take to the Ground  A new regiment made up of mostly westerners who were prepared for difficult conditions.  Led by Teddy Roosevelt, the Rough Riders take Kettle and San Juan Hills to secure the high ground.  After a failed attempt by the Spanish fleet to escape, the Spanish sought to surrender.

10. End of the “Splendid Little War”  The U.S. and Spain end the war by signing the Treaty of Paris.  Part of the treaty was that Spain would surrender Cuba, Puerto Rico, Guam, and the opportunity to buy the Philippines.  America gave control of Cuba back to the Cubans, but did take control of the Philippines, Puerto Rico, and Guam.