Title: The Spanish American War (1898-1901): US Goes to War: 1898 | SparkNotes
Headings: The Spanish American War (1898-1901)
The Spanish American War (1898-1901)
US Goes to War: 1898
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Content: The Spanish American War (1898-1901): US Goes to War: 1898 | SparkNotes
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US Goes to War: 1898
Summary US Goes to War: 1898
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After the explosion of the USS Maine, the US public was whipped up into an anti-Spanish hysteria. Despite Spain's desire to avoid war and President William McKinley's distaste for war, the yellow press continued feeding the public's appetite for anti-Spanish news. Hawks like then-Assistant Secretary of the Navy Theodore Roosevelt loudly criticized the reluctant McKinley for being weak and afraid. Although he disagreed with the public's demands for war, McKinley finally submitted to the various pressure exerted on him.