Final answer:
William McKinley, a Civil War veteran and president during the Spanish-American War, was reluctant to start a war with Spain due to his understanding of war's harsh realities. The explosion of the USS Maine and Spain's refusal to grant Cuban independence ultimately compelled McKinley to seek a war declaration. Although the U.S. won swiftly, the war's significant challenges highlighted issues of military preparedness and ethical considerations in imperialist actions.
Step-by-step explanation:
President William McKinley and the Spanish-American War
President William McKinley was a key figure during the Spanish-American War despite public pressure and sensationalist journalism pushing for conflict. McKinley, a veteran of the Civil War, understood the grim realities of war first-hand and was hesitant to enter a military conflict with Spain. The tipping point came after Spain's actions in Cuba and public outcry following the mysterious explosion of the USS Maine.
When Spain did not accede to McKinley's ultimatum demanding Cuban independence, the President had little choice but to ask Congress for a declaration of war. Eventually, the Spanish-American War was brief, with the United States emerging triumphant and assisting in the liberation of Cuba from Spanish rule, but it presented significant challenges due to the untested state of the new navy and the lack of preparedness among American soldiers.
Despite the success of the United States in the Spanish-American War, many Americans, such as the anti-imperialists and veterans like Theodore Roosevelt, reflected on the complexities and moral consequences of the war. The conflict did not only present a military challenge but also posed moral and strategic decisions for the nation particularly concerning topics like imperialism, human rights, and national interest.