Spanish-American War: Economic Causes and Consequences

 

Spanish-American War: Economic Causes and Consequences

Causes:

• Cuban sugar trade: The US had significant investments in Cuban sugar plantations and refineries. Spanish policies and the Cuban rebellion disrupted trade, threatening American businesses.
• Desire for markets: The US was experiencing rapid industrialization and needed new markets for its goods. Spanish colonies in the Caribbean and Pacific were seen as prime targets.
• Manifest Destiny: Expansionist ideology justified seizing territory from weaker powers, particularly European empires.
• Yellow journalism: Sensationalized newspaper articles fueled outrage among Americans by depicting Spanish atrocities in Cuba.

Consequences:

• US territorial gains: The US gained Guam, Puerto Rico, and the Philippines, becoming a global power with interests in Asia and the Pacific.
• Rise of American business: US corporations expanded into newly acquired territories, particularly in mining and agriculture.
• Latin American resentment: Latin American countries viewed the US as a new imperialist power, creating lasting tension.
• Anti-colonialism: The war boosted anti-colonial movements around the world, weakening European empires.
• Domestic turmoil: The war divided American public opinion, raising questions about imperialism and its costs.

Overall, the Spanish-American War's economic factors were both drivers and outcomes of the conflict. The desire for markets and protection of investments played a key role in pushing the US towards war, while the war's outcome significantly reshaped global economic and political landscapes.