USA HISTORY

AMERICAN IMPERIALISM 1890 1919

THE SPANISH AMERICAN WAR

Question [CLICK ON ANY CHOICE TO KNOW THE RIGHT ANSWER]
How did the explosion aboard the USS Maine lead to the outbreak of the Spanish American War?
A
The explosion aboard the USS Maine killed hundreds of Spanish politicians, civilians, and military advisers.
B
American newspapers blamed the explosion aboard the USS Maine on the Spanish, creating public support for war.
C
Spanish leaders attacked the USS Maine, causing it to explode.
D
Cuban slaves tried to escape aboard the USS Maine, and many died.
Explanation: 

Detailed explanation-1: -On February 15, 1898, an explosion of unknown origin sank the battleship U.S.S. Maine in the Havana, Cuba harbor, killing 266 of the 354 crew members. The sinking of the Maine incited United States’ passions against Spain, eventually leading to a naval blockade of Cuba and a declaration of war.

Detailed explanation-2: -In 1897, newly elected President William McKinley cautioned patience, but the explosion of the Maine shattered U.S. relations with Spain and led to a declaration of war on April 25, 1898. War with Spain caused the U.S. to rethink its long-held principle of anti-colonialism.

Detailed explanation-3: -USS Maine, a second-class battleship built between 1888 and 1895, was sent to Havana in January 1898 to protect American interests during the long-standing revolt of the Cubans against the Spanish government. In the evening of 15 February 1898, Maine sank when her forward gunpowder magazines exploded.

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