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Causes of the Spanish-American War

Explore the key causes and events leading up to the Spanish-American War, including yellow journalism, economic interests, and the sinking of the USS Maine.

Grade 10 Social studies HistoryU.S. HistoryCauses of the Spanish-american War
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Multiple ChoiceFill in the BlanksTrue / FalseShort AnswerMatching

Standards

D2.His.1.9-12D2.His.2.9-12

Topics

Spanish-American WarU.S. HistoryImperialismYellow Journalism
7 sections · Free to use · Printable
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Causes of the Spanish-American War

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Date:

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Read each question carefully and provide your best answer based on your knowledge of the causes of the Spanish-American War.

1. Which of the following was a primary cause of American public support for intervention in Cuba?

a

Spain's strong economic ties with the United States

b

The influence of yellow journalism exaggerating Spanish atrocities

c

A direct attack by Spain on American soil

d

Cuba's declaration of war on the United States

2. The DeLôme Letter was significant because it:

a

Proposed a peaceful resolution to the Cuban conflict

b

Criticized President McKinley, fueling American resentment towards Spain

c

Detailed Spain's military plans for defending Cuba

d

Outlined a secret alliance between Spain and Germany

3. The sinking of the USS   in Havana Harbor was a major catalyst for the Spanish-American War.

4.   journalism, characterized by sensational headlines and exaggerated stories, played a significant role in shaping public opinion against Spain.

5. American business interests in Cuban sugar plantations contributed to the desire for intervention.

T

True

F

False

6. The Teller Amendment, passed by the U.S. Congress, stated that the U.S. intended to annex Cuba after the war.

T

True

F

False

7. Explain how "yellow journalism" contributed to the outbreak of the Spanish-American War. Provide at least two examples of its impact.

Match each term with its correct description.

8. Yellow Journalism

 

a. Spanish diplomat whose letter criticized President McKinley

9. USS Maine

 

b. Sensationalized newspaper reporting

10. Enrique Dupuy de Lôme

 

c. American battleship whose sinking sparked outrage