Final answer:
Public opinion in the United States before and during the Spanish-American War was divided, with some voices advocating for intervention in support of Cuban independence, and others expressing concern about the ramifications of war, including economic impacts on trade.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that best describes public opinion in the United States before and during the Spanish-American War is that public opinion was divided, with some supporting war and others advocating for peace. Prior to the war, there was a notable push among the American public to intervene, particularly on behalf of the Cuban people who were seeking independence from Spanish control. This sentiment was partly incited public opinion through media reporting, especially following events like the explosion of the USS Maine in Havana harbor. Moreover, there was a strategic interest for the United States to expand its global presence and an evident empathy for Latin American revolutions that threatened European influence and potentially fostered commerce and republican ideals.
During the conflict, the American military faced significant challenges due to it being largely untested, and despite a powerful new navy, there was a reliance on volunteers to supplement the regular forces. Over one million American men volunteered, demonstrating a strong wave of public support for the conflict. However, there were also concerns among some Americans, including Wall Street investors, about the potential adverse effects on trade with Cuba, showcasing the divided nature of public opinion.