What Did the Treaty of Paris 1898 Do?

By Michael Ferguson

The Treaty of Paris 1898 is a significant event in the history of the United States. This treaty brought an end to the Spanish-American War and marked the beginning of America’s emergence as a global power. Let’s take a closer look at what this treaty did and how it shaped American history.

Background

The Spanish-American War began in 1898 when tensions between Spain and the United States reached a boiling point. The United States had been interested in Cuba, a Spanish colony, for some time due to its strategic location and potential for economic gain. When Spain refused to grant Cuba its independence, the United States intervened and declared war.

The Terms of the Treaty

The Treaty of Paris 1898 was signed on December 10, 1898, between the United States and Spain. The terms of this treaty were as follows:

  • Spain relinquished control of Cuba. Cuba was granted independence from Spain and became a protectorate of the United States until 1902.
  • Puerto Rico and Guam were ceded to the United States. These territories became unincorporated territories of the United States, meaning that they were not part of any state but were under federal jurisdiction.
  • The Philippines were sold to the United States for $20 million. The Philippines became an American colony until it gained independence in 1946.

The Impact on American History

The Treaty of Paris 1898 had far-reaching impacts on American history. Here are just a few:

  • America emerged as a global power. With its acquisition of territories such as Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines, America asserted itself as a major player on the world stage.
  • American imperialism became a hotly debated topic. The acquisition of these territories raised questions about American imperialism and whether or not it was ethical for the United States to expand its influence in this way.
  • The Philippines became a battleground for American interests. The United States’ presence in the Philippines led to a brutal conflict known as the Philippine-American War, which lasted from 1899 to 1902.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Treaty of Paris 1898 was an important event in American history. It marked the end of the Spanish-American War and set the stage for America’s emergence as a global power. While it had significant impacts on American history, it also raised important questions about American imperialism and its place in the world.