Final answer:
The U.S. victory over Spain granted the U.S. control of the Philippines, Puerto Rico, and Guam, and led to the liberation of Cuba, though the latter remained under U.S. influence. The Philippines later gained independence in 1946 after a prolonged conflict.
Step-by-step explanation:
The U.S. victory over Spain resulted in the United States gaining control over several former Spanish possessions, including the Philippines, Puerto Rico, Guam, and also led to the liberation of Cuba. Following the defeat in the Spanish-American War, Spain recognized Cuba's independence and ceded Guam and Puerto Rico to the United States. The Treaty of Paris, signed on December 10, 1898, also allowed the United States to purchase the Philippines for $20 million.
Although Cuba was recognized as independent, it was not entirely free from U.S. influence, which was extended through instruments like the Platt Amendment that allowed the U.S. to intervene in Cuban affairs.