US Involvement in Spanish-American War: Key Events

What Pushed Congress Towards a Declaration of War?

President McKinley was responsible for pushing Congress to authorize the war. Ironically, at the start of his presidential term, he actually wanted to steer the US away from any involvement in war. However, after an explosion on an American battleship, which killed 260 of its members, the public wanted aggressive action against Spain, which is what led McKinley to do so.

What Is the Teller Amendment?

The Teller Amendment was a result of President McKinley going to Congress in order to use force against the Spanish in the Spanish-American War. The amendment was passed in order to authorize the war. The amendment stated that the US didn't have any intentions to annex Cuba.

Describe the US Involvement in the Philippines

Most of the war was fought in Cuba and the Philippines. The US had a very well-prepared navy, but their army was not as good of a fighting force. The navy won many battles and had early success. The army was a bit more disorganized and not as strategically planned. The army was made up of many volunteers, and it was difficult to clothe, arm, and train all these men. Nonetheless, they still managed and won.

Why Was the Anti-Imperialistic League Formed?

This was an organization that was against the annexation of the Philippines after the Spanish-American War. Some members were Mark Twain and Samuel Gompers. Other supporters included Democrats, sugar growers, and isolationists.

What Is the Platt Amendment?

This amendment was passed in 1901. It guaranteed Cuban independence as long as they did not enter into any other foreign treaties. It also gave the US the right to intervene in Cuba in order to protect this independence. The amendment did give the US a kind of dominance over Cuba, and although there were many protests, the amendment became part of the Cuban constitution.

What Is Paternalism?

Paternalism is an unequal relationship between two entities. In this relationship, one is acting as the dominant superior, while the other is treated as a subordinate. In terms of imperialism, it is the idea that a colony can't take care of itself, so it is up to the colonizer to take care of it.