The spanish american war and world power 38a answer key – The Spanish-American War and World Power: 38A Answer Key delves into the intricate relationship between the Spanish-American War and the rise of the United States as a global power. This comprehensive guide provides a thorough understanding of the war’s motivations, consequences, and enduring legacy.

The Spanish-American War marked a watershed moment in American history, propelling the nation into the realm of world powers. The conflict exposed the deep-seated imperial ambitions of the United States, leading to the acquisition of new territories and a profound shift in global power dynamics.

Spanish-American War and Imperialism

The Spanish-American War of 1898 marked a pivotal moment in American history, propelling the nation into a new era of imperialism. Motivated by a complex interplay of economic, political, and ideological factors, the war resulted in the acquisition of new territories and a significant expansion of US influence in the world.

Acquisition of New Territories, The spanish american war and world power 38a answer key

• Puerto Rico: The island was acquired by the United States under the terms of the Treaty of Paris, which ended the war.
• Guam: The island was seized by the US Navy during the war and later became a US territory.
• Philippines: The archipelago was initially occupied by the US during the war and later became a US colony.

Increased US Influence

• Control of Cuba: The US gained control over Cuba after the war, effectively ending Spanish rule and establishing a protectorate.
• Increased influence in Latin America: The war demonstrated the growing power of the United States and its willingness to intervene in the affairs of its neighbors.
• Emergence as a global power: The acquisition of new territories and increased influence in Latin America propelled the United States into the ranks of the world’s major powers.

The War’s Impact on World Power Dynamics

The Spanish-American War had a profound impact on the global balance of power. It marked the decline of Spain as a major colonial empire and the rise of the United States as a global superpower.

Weakening of Spain

• Loss of colonies: Spain lost all of its remaining colonies in the Americas, including Cuba, Puerto Rico, and the Philippines.
• Economic and political instability: The war further weakened Spain’s already fragile economy and political system.
• Decline in international prestige: The defeat in the war tarnished Spain’s reputation as a major European power.

Strengthening of the United States

• Acquisition of new territories: The war gave the United States control over new territories, expanding its global reach.
• Increased military power: The war demonstrated the growing military strength of the United States and its ability to project power overseas.

li>Enhanced international prestige: The victory in the war elevated the United States’ standing in the world and established it as a major global player.

Domestic Consequences of the War: The Spanish American War And World Power 38a Answer Key



The Spanish-American War had a significant impact on American society and politics. It sparked debates about the role of the United States in world affairs and led to the rise of anti-imperialist sentiment.

Anti-Imperialist Sentiment

• Opposition to colonialism: Many Americans opposed the acquisition of new territories, arguing that it violated the principles of democracy and self-determination.
• Concern over economic and social consequences: Anti-imperialists feared that the expansion of American empire would lead to increased military spending, economic exploitation, and social inequality.
• Moral and religious objections: Some Americans believed that the war was immoral and that the United States should not impose its values on other countries.

Debate over US Role in World Affairs

• Isolationism vs. interventionism: The war sparked a debate about whether the United States should remain isolated from global affairs or play a more active role in international politics.
• Impact on foreign policy: The war led to the adoption of a more interventionist foreign policy, as the United States became more willing to use its power to influence events abroad.
• Rise of American nationalism: The victory in the war fostered a sense of national pride and patriotism, which contributed to the growth of American nationalism.

Legacy of the Spanish-American War



The Spanish-American War left a lasting legacy on the United States and the world. It shaped US foreign policy, influenced international relations, and had a profound impact on the development of American identity.

US Foreign Policy

• Interventionism: The war reinforced the idea of the United States as a global power with a responsibility to intervene in the affairs of other countries.
• Expansionism: The acquisition of new territories fueled the desire for further expansion, leading to the United States’ involvement in subsequent wars and conflicts.
• Anti-imperialism: The war also contributed to the rise of anti-imperialist sentiment, which continued to influence US foreign policy in the 20th century.

International Relations

• Shift in global power: The war marked a turning point in global power relations, as the United States emerged as a major player in international affairs.
• Rise of the United States: The victory in the war cemented the United States’ status as a global superpower and set the stage for its future role in international politics.
• Decline of Spain: The war hastened the decline of Spain as a colonial empire and led to the rise of the United States as the dominant power in the Americas.

American Identity

• Nationalism: The war fostered a sense of national pride and patriotism, which contributed to the development of a distinct American identity.
• Manifest Destiny: The victory in the war reinforced the belief in Manifest Destiny, the idea that the United States was destined to expand across the North American continent and beyond.
• Imperialism: The war also raised questions about the nature of American imperialism and its impact on the world.

Q&A

What were the primary motivations behind the Spanish-American War?

Economic interests, particularly in Cuba, and the desire to expand American influence in the Caribbean and Pacific regions.

How did the war contribute to the rise of American imperialism?

The acquisition of territories like Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines expanded American control and fueled imperial ambitions.

What were the domestic consequences of the Spanish-American War?

The war sparked debates over imperialism, raised questions about the role of the United States in world affairs, and led to the rise of anti-imperialist sentiment.