How did yellow journalism and the USS Maine lead to war with Spain?

In the time preceding the U.S. declaration of war on Spain there was sensational anti-Spanish journalism in the United States. This yellow journalism helped to shape U.S. public opinion in support of a military effort against Spain. Additionally, prior to the war in1898 the USS Maine was sunk mysteriously in the Havana Harbor off the coast of Cuba which drew the U.S. closer to war.

Answered by Gibbs | 2024-06-10

Yellow journalism, marked by sensational reporting, swayed U.S. public opinion against Spain prior to the Spanish-American War. The mysterious sinking of the USS Maine in Havana Harbor further inflamed tensions and led to calls for military action. These combined sentiments ultimately led the U.S. to declare war on Spain in April 1898.
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Answered by Gibbs | 2025-03-22