Spanish American War

Reasons for the war

1. Protection of American business in Cuba.
2. American support of Cuban rebels to gain independence from Spain.
3. Rising tensions as a result of the sinking of the U.S.S. Maine in Havana Harbor.
4. Yellow Journalism (exaggerated news reports)

Results of the war

1. The United States emerged as a world power.
2. Cuba gained independence from Spain.
3. The U.S. gained possession of  the Philippines, Guam, and Puerto Rico.