04/25/2025
US History Today – April 25, 1898 - The U.S. Declares War on Spain 🇺🇸⚔️
On April 25, 1898, the United States Congress officially declared war on Spain, starting the Spanish-American War. This conflict began after the explosion of the U.S. battleship USS Maine in Havana Harbor, Cuba—an event that shocked the American public.
At the time, Cuba was a Spanish colony fighting for independence. Many Americans supported the Cuban people and blamed Spain for the explosion. Newspapers used sensational headlines to stir public anger, a practice called yellow journalism.
The war lasted only a few months but had huge results. The U.S. defeated Spain and gained control of Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines. It marked the beginning of America’s rise as a global power and had long-lasting effects on U.S. foreign policy.
Notable People:
- President William McKinley – asked Congress to declare war.
- Theodore Roosevelt – future president and war hero with the "Rough Riders."
- Spanish and Cuban leaders – involved in the fight for independence.
New Vocabulary:
1. Declare war – to officially start a war with another country.
2. Colony – a country or area controlled by another nation.
3. Explosion – a sudden and violent burst.
4. Sensational – exciting or shocking, often exaggerated.
5. Foreign policy – a government’s actions toward other countries.
(How about making some practice sentences in the comments below?)
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