Final answer:
The United States played a dual role in the Spanish-American War, acting both as a leader and a bully. The US intervention led to the independence of Cuba but also involved imposing the Platt Amendment and acquiring territories.
Step-by-step explanation:
The United States played a dual role in the Spanish-American War, acting both as a leader and a bully. On one hand, the US intervention provided a way for Spain to retreat and honorably end the war. The US navy played a significant role in sinking the Spanish fleet, which ultimately led to the Spanish surrender and the independence of Cuba. However, the US also imposed the infamous Platt Amendment on Cuba, which allowed for US intervention in its internal affairs. This interventionism and the acquisition of territories like Puerto Rico and the Philippines reflect a more assertive and imperialistic side of the US during that time.