What year did the Spanish-American War occur?

• A. 1896
• B. 1898
• C. 1901
• D. 1905

Answer: (B)

The Spanish-American War occurred in 1898, marking a significant turning point in U.S. foreign policy and its emergence as a global power. This conflict arose primarily from the Cuban struggle for independence from Spain, which garnered considerable attention and sympathy from the American public and government. The war lasted only a few months, from April to August 1898, resulting in a swift victory for the United States.

Following the war, the Treaty of Paris was signed in December 1898, leading to the U.S. acquiring territories such as Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines, which further expanded its influence beyond the continental U.S. This war symbolized a shift towards imperialism in American foreign policy, as the United States began to take on more responsibility and influence in international affairs. The year 1898 is pivotal in understanding this transformation and its lasting impact.