Final answer:
The sinking of the U.S.S. Maine in Havana Harbor triggered American cries for war against Spain.
Step-by-step explanation:
The specific event that triggered American cries for war against Spain was the sinking of the U.S.S. Maine in Havana Harbor. On February 15, 1898, the U.S.S. Maine, an American battleship, exploded and sank in Havana Harbor, Cuba. This incident led to widespread public outrage in the United States, with many Americans blaming Spain for the explosion.
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