What year did the Spanish-American War take place?

• A. 1895
• B. 1898
• C. 1900
• D. 1902

Answer: (B)

The Spanish-American War took place in 1898, making this the correct answer. This conflict arose from the ongoing troubles in Cuba, where many sought independence from Spanish colonial rule. The U.S. intervened in favor of Cuban independence and declared war on Spain after the sinking of the USS Maine in Havana Harbor. The war was brief, lasting only about four months, but it resulted in a significant transformation in American foreign policy and established the United States as a global power. The victory led to the Treaty of Paris, which ceded Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines to the U.S., further solidifying its new role in international affairs. Understanding the historical context and the events leading up to the war helps underscore why 1898 is the correct year that marks this pivotal moment in history.