Final answer:
The United States went to war with Spain over land in the Caribbean and the Philippines to gather raw materials and establish military bases.
Step-by-step explanation:
The United States went to war with Spain over land in the Caribbean and the Philippines primarily for two reasons: to gather raw materials and to establish military bases. The United States wanted to expand its influence and control over areas rich in natural resources, such as sugar and tobacco plantations in the Caribbean. Additionally, it sought to establish military bases in the Philippines to protect trade routes and project its power in the Pacific. The advantage of fighting near home and having steel ships rather than wooden ships were secondary factors that contributed to the decision to go to war.
Learn more about Causes of the Spanish-American War