splendid little war AMH2020 ESSAY

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Apr 3, 2024

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The Splendid Little War and the forgotten Philippine-American War Adianet Clemente AMH2020 Jennifer Murray 22 Mar 2024 The Splendid Little War and the forgotten Philippine-American War
The Spanish-American war of 1898 holds a significant place in American history, often being referred to as the “splendid little war”. This phrase captures how the conflict is viewed as a quick and successful venture for the US. Nonetheless, the reason for the United States involvement in this war and the ensuing Philippine-American war, which is often overlooked, prompted questions as to what motivated these military interventions. The Spanish-American war started being referred to as the “splendid little war” after Secretary of State John Haye gave it that name due to it lasting only 4 months and resulting in less than 400 American deaths. On May 1, the most pivotal confrontation happened in Manila Bay, led by Admiral George Dewey. (Foner, 2020. Pg 537) This attack showcased American naval prowess and culminated in the defeat of the Spanish fleet in the Philippines. The fact that the war was short, and its apparent success made people see it as a great accomplishment, making Americans proud by boosting national pride and projecting military strength. The choice for the US to participate in the Spanish-American War was complex, with various factors driving American intervention. One primary reason cited was the desire to support Cuban independence from Spanish colonial rule. (Foner, 2020. Pg 537) Additionally, The sinking of the USS Maine in Havana harbor further drove calls for intervention, despite a later investigation revealing it was probably an accident (Foner, 2020. Pg537) Nonetheless, the influence of “yellow journalism”, a term that came into fruition after Joseph Pulitzer and William Randolph Hearst started competing to see who could sell the most newspapers by often
exaggerating and portraying Spanish atrocities and oppression in a dramatic and sometimes inaccurate manner, heightened public outrage and sympathy for the Cuban cause, influencing public opinion and creating a drive for U.S. intervention. (U.S. Diplomacy and Yellow Journalism, 1895–1898, 2019) As for whether I agree or disagree with these reasons, it is essential to recognize the complexities surrounding the motivations for the Spanish-American War. While the humanitarian concern for Cuban independence and the promotion of democratic values may have been genuine, economic and strategic interests undoubtedly played a significant role in shaping American policy as well. After the war, America's focus on its newly acquired territories was primarily driven by trade rather than seeking wealth from natural resources or encouraging large- scale American settlement. Puerto Rico and Cuba served as gateways to Latin America, functioning as strategic outposts that allowed the projection of American naval and commercial power across the hemisphere. This is further supported by the “Open door policy” which referred to as the free movement of goods and money. Despite banning Chinese immigration, the US insisted in having access to the markets in Asia. (Foner, 2020. Pg 540) In contrast with the Spanish-American war, the Philippine-American War has often been ignored or overlooked in history, despite the fact that it was longer and bloodier, with a death toll of more that 4000 Americans and 100,000 Filipinos. (Foner, 2020. Pg 541) Various factors caused this war to be overlooked. According to the article (“Theodore Roosevelt’s “forgotten war.”) it was referred to by multiple names, such as the Philippine-American War, the Philippine War, or the Philippine Insurrection, leading to confusion and a lack of clarity in historical
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