The U.S.S. Maine Explodes, Precipitating the Spanish-American War
A tragic event occurred on February 15th, 1898, when the U.S.S. Maine, an American battleship, exploded in Havana Harbor, Cuba, leading to the deaths of 266 sailors. The incident heightened tensions between the United States and Spain, ultimately leading to the Spanish-American War.
Treaty of Paris ends Spanish-American War
The Treaty of Paris, signed on December 10, 1898, officially ended the Spanish-American War, solidifying American control of Guam, Puerto Rico, and the Philippines.