Final answer:
During the events unfolding in Cuba, American citizens were sympathetic to the Cuban rebels due to the brutality of the Spanish response. They supported the Cubans for reasons including similarities to America's fight for independence, economic interests, and the desire to uphold the Monroe Doctrine. No information is provided about the thoughts of local government leaders.
Step-by-step explanation:
American citizens during the events unfolding in Cuba around this timeframe were largely sympathetic to the Cuban rebels' cause, especially as the Spanish response was notably brutal. They supported the Cubans for four main reasons:
- They saw similarities between Cuba's fight for independence and America's own struggle against European monarchs.
- US businesses hoped to invest in Cuban agriculture.
- Spain's exit from the Caribbean would further the Monroe Doctrine, which declared American authority over the Western Hemisphere.
- Spanish commanders used inhumane methods to suppress the Cuban rebels, resulting in torture, killings, and relocation of villages.
Regarding local government leaders, it is not specified in the provided information.