Final answer:
The United States defeated the Spanish Empire in the Spanish-American War, gaining control of Cuba, Puerto Rico, Guam, the Philippines, and other islands.
Step-by-step explanation:
The United States defeated the Spanish Empire in the Spanish-American War. This war took place in 1898 and resulted in US victory. As a result of the war, the United States gained control of Cuba, Puerto Rico, Guam, the Philippines, and other islands, marking a significant shift in global power.