Spanish American War Research Paper

Not only did the Spanish-American war diminish Spain’s colonial empire, but the conflict gave America an opportunity to become a Pacific power. This significant event in history, though brief, entirely changed the geography of power between nations and led to other significant events that would shape relations into their current state. The Spanish-American war created a positive lasting impact on America’s foreign policy, and in a short period of time was capable of providing many opportunities for the country.
Though the original objective of the war was to benefit Cuba by providing independence, the United States possessed many reasons to support military action towards the cause. Politicians, for instance, believed such a measure …show more content…
This marked the first overseas conflict fought by the United states. The first official battle involved the U.S. Asiatic Squadron led by Commodore George Dewey against Spanish fleet on April 30th, in Manila Bay. The interference was brief, giving American forces swift victory; However, the U.S. eventually turned on their filipino allies when they overtook the island’s capital, Manila. This, in time, sparked the Philippine-American War which would last 14 years. Then, not long after obtaining this land, Guam became part of the …show more content…
Though many regions that were once under American control have gained independence, trade continues and tourism has become an important reason for alliance between nations.
Despite some strain within relationships such as America’s with Cuba since the Cold War, regions have continued to support each other and provide assistance when needed.
The conflict between Spain and the nations it once held within its colonial empire was not only a “splendid little war,” as Secretary of State John Hay once stated, but an incredible war that allowed the United States to gain prodigious relations with nations across the globe. Though lasting only a brief period, it created a more influential outcome than most wars have created through years of hardship. Without this event, America would simply not be the cultured region it is today. The Spanish-American war created a positive lasting impact on America’s foreign policy, and in a short period of time was capable of providing many opportunities for the

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