US Acquisition of Puerto Rico: From Spanish-American War to Territory Status

The Spanish–American War (1898)

The US acquired Puerto Rico under the Treaty of Paris (Dec 10, 1898), which ended the war. Causes included Cuban independence, Philippine control, and the USS Maine explosion. US forces invaded Puerto Rico in July 1898; Spain surrendered the island on July 25.

Treaty of Paris Terms

• Spain ceded Puerto Rico, Guam, Philippines, and Cuba to the US.
• US paid Spain $20 million for the Philippines.

Foraker Act (1900)

Established civil government; granted US citizenship but limited autonomy; territorial government appointed by US president.

Jones–Shafroth Act (1917)

Granted US citizenship; created elected territorial legislature; but reserved significant power for US president/Congress; no independence.

Current Status

Puerto Rico remains a US territory. Political status (statehood, independence, enhanced autonomy) is debated; referendums have not yielded a clear mandate.