Causes of the Spanish-American War
Explore the key events and factors that led to the Spanish-American War in this engaging worksheet for 8th graders.
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Causes of the Spanish-American War
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Read each question carefully and answer to the best of your ability.
1. Which of the following was a major cause of the Spanish-American War?
Spanish invasion of the United States
The sinking of the USS Maine
Cuban refusal to trade with the U.S.
The assassination of a Spanish diplomat
2. What is 'yellow journalism' and how did it contribute to the war?
Reporting based on facts; it calmed public opinion.
Exaggerated news stories; it inflamed public opinion against Spain.
Government propaganda; it convinced people to support Spain.
Journalism focused on sports; it had no impact on the war.
3. The de Lôme Letter, which criticized President McKinley, was written by a Spanish .
4. Cuban rebels used tactics against Spanish rule.
5. The United States declared war on Spain immediately after the USS Maine exploded.
True
False
6. In your own words, explain the concept of 'humanitarian concerns' as a cause of the Spanish-American War.
Match the term with its definition.
7. Imperialism
a. Exaggerated news reporting
8. Yellow Journalism
b. Policy of extending a country's power and influence through colonization