Final answer:
The cartoon likely shows the US becoming a world power post-Spanish-American War by illustrating its new external territories signaling the country's emergence as a formidable force in international affairs.
Step-by-step explanation:
The cartoon about the US after the Spanish-American War likely illustrates the US becoming a world power. This transformation occurred as a result of its victory over Spain, through which it gained control over former Spanish territories such as the Philippines, Cuba, Puerto Rico, and Guam, signalling the start of an imperial phase for the country.
While Cuba and the Philippines eventually became independent, the other territories remained under US influence, with Puerto Rico and Guam still being a part of the United States today. Such acquisitions demonstrated the United States's increasing military power and strategic interests in global affairs, especially as it moved further into the 20th century.
During this time, international affairs began to play a more significant role in American politics, with figures like William Jennings Bryan expressing disapproval of American imperialism, while others like William McKinley and Teddy Roosevelt embraced the US's new role as an emerging empire.
Post-war, America's new territories provided strategic military and commercial benefits, and the debate over extending democracy to these areas or ruling them as conquered territories continued for decades.