Cuba had always been ruled by Spain, but in 1895 they were already frustated with Spain having control over them. The Cubans fought for their independence. Spanish leaders new they had to act quick so they implemented a "concentration policy". This required Cubans to leave their land and move to fortified camps where they could be monitored by Spanish soldiers.
We, Cubans are tired and frustated with you, Spain having control over us.
During the 1890's Yellow Journalism was a common tactic that newspaper sellers used to outsell their rivals. They would make the headlines of their newspapers attention-grabbing and do write about big stories. Some newspaper owners saw the cuban conflict as an opportunity to increase their sales.
Oh My God! Have either of you read the new newspaper's headline? How could Spain do that!
Spain is responsible for the distruction of the Mainne.
No we haven't but were definitely going to go buy that newspaper and tell our other friends about this!
It took less than 4 months for the Spanish to be defeated, this war also cost the USA $250 million and about 3,000 lives. Cuba gained it's independence and America gained control of former Spanish territories such as Guam, Puerto Rico, and the Philippines.
Cuba is now an independent country.
"A Splendid Little War"
America, you are now in control of former Spanish territories such as Guam, Puerto Rico, and the Philippines.