The document discusses the events leading up to and following the Spanish-American War of 1898. It describes the growing imperialist sentiment in the United States due to increasing wealth, industry and population. Yellow journalism helped stir public support for overseas expansion. The war began over the Cuban revolt against Spain and the sinking of the USS Maine. The U.S. victory in the war resulted in American control of Puerto Rico, Guam and the Philippines and influence in Cuba through the Platt Amendment. This established the U.S. as a new imperial power but also created debates around imperialism and America's new role in the world.