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What was the main reason why the Spanish-American War began?

User Gustin
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Final answer:

The main reason the Spanish-American War began was the explosion of the USS Maine in Havana harbor, combined with growing tensions and American interests in Cuba and the Caribbean.


Step-by-step explanation:

The main reason why the Spanish-American War began was the explosion of the USS Maine in Havana harbor in February 1898. The incident led to growing tensions between Spain and the United States. The yellow press, a type of sensationalist journalism, exaggerated this event and used it as a rallying cry to push for American intervention in Cuba. Additionally, the United States had economic interests in Cuba and an interest in spreading its influence in the Caribbean, which further fueled the war.


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