Question

Which best described the battlefield situation faced by the Americans at the Battle of San Juan Hill?

Answer 1

The Americans at the Battle of San Juan Hill faced strong Spanish defenses on July 1, 1898. African-American regiments and the Rough Riders played key roles in the successful assault on the heights, although their contributions were largely overshadowed by those of Roosevelt after the war.

Step-by-step explanation:

The Battle of San Juan Hill was the most significant land engagement during the Spanish-American War. American troops faced off against Spanish fortifications on July 1, 1898. The challenge for the American forces was the assault against strong defensive positions held by the Spanish. Despite being underestimated by the Americans, the Spanish defense was robust, leading to a series of bloody frontal attacks by U.S. forces.

The assault involved diverse regiments, including several African American units and the famed Rough Riders, led by the future President Theodore Roosevelt. These groups displayed remarkable bravery on the battlefield, navigating organizational challenges and overcoming discrimination they faced within and outside the military. The volunteer cavalry and African American soldiers not only played a crucial role in the main attack up San Juan Hill but also were instrumental in the successful capture of the heights around San Juan, contributing significantly to the U.S. victory in Cuba.

The capture of San Juan Hill proved pivotal, leading to the eventual surrender of Spanish forces in Cuba and greatly influencing the outcome of the war. It also marked the rise to celebrity status for Roosevelt, although the contributions of African-American soldiers were widely overlooked at the time.

Answer 2

America faces many challenges before even reaching San Juan Hill such as 500 villagers fighting off the Americans. Another thing that proved to be difficult was the Spanish shooting down hundreds of American soldiers. However these issues are overcome in the result of capturing Kettle Hill as well as San Juan Hill. All in all, the challenges the Americans faced were due in part to the Spanish defenders of the village and the Spanish artillery.