Economic Interests: Cuba had a thriving economy, particularly in the sugar industry. The US saw Cuba as a potential market for American goods, as well as a source of cheap labor and resources.
Strategic Location: Cuba's strategic location in the Caribbean made it a valuable military asset. It could be used to monitor shipping traffic, protect American interests in the region, and serve as a base for military operations.
Geopolitical Concerns: The Monroe Doctrine, proclaimed in 1823, declared the Americas as an American sphere of influence. The US saw Cuba as a potential threat to its regional hegemony, and feared that it could become a base for European powers or rival nations.
Desire for Expansion: The US was experiencing a period of rapid expansion and growth, and Cuba was seen as a potential addition to the American empire.
Influence of American Business Interests: Many American businessmen and industrialists had significant financial interests in Cuba, particularly in the sugar industry. They lobbied the US government to intervene in Cuba to protect their investments.