Three Reasons the U.S. Went to War with Spain Over Cuba (1898)

1. Economic Interests: $50M+ US investments in Cuban sugar; Spanish reconcentration camps disrupted production and property.
2. Humanitarian Outcry: Yellow journalism (Hearst, Pulitzer) amplified reports of Spanish atrocities; "Remember the Maine!" rallied public.
3. Strategic Imperative: Cuba's location commanded Caribbean sea lanes; US wanted to prevent European (German) foothold and secure future canal approaches.

The Teller Amendment disclaimed annexation intent, but the Platt Amendment later ensured US dominance.