The Treaty of Paris 1898 was a peace agreement that ended the Spanish-American War. This treaty was signed on December 10, 1898, in Paris, France, and it marked the end of Spain’s colonial empire and the rise of the United States as a global power.
The treaty had several terms that had significant impacts on both countries. Let’s take a closer look at those terms.
Terms of the Treaty
1. Recognition of Cuba’s independence: The treaty recognized Cuba as an independent state and acknowledged its right to self-governance.
2. Cession of Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines to the United States: Spain ceded Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines to the United States in exchange for $20 million.
3. Annexation of Hawaii: The treaty did not include Hawaii, which was annexed by the United States in August 1898.
4. Protection of Spanish citizens in former colonies: The treaty ensured that Spanish citizens living in former colonies would be protected by their new governments.
Impacts of the Treaty
The Treaty of Paris 1898 had significant impacts on both Spain and the United States:
1. End of Spanish colonial empire: The treaty marked the end of Spain’s colonial empire and its status as a major world power. Rise of US as global power: With its acquisition of Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines, the United States became a global power with a presence in Asia-Pacific region. Philippine-American War: The annexation of Philippines led to a protracted conflict between Filipino revolutionaries and American forces known as Philippine-American War that lasted for several years. Increased tensions between US and Latin America: The annexation of Puerto Rico and Guam also increased tensions between the United States and Latin American countries, who saw it as a form of imperialism.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Treaty of Paris 1898 was a significant event in the history of both Spain and the United States. It marked the end of Spain’s colonial empire and the rise of US as a global power.
The treaty had several terms that had far-reaching impacts on both countries and their relations with other nations. By studying this treaty, we can gain a better understanding of the complex forces that shaped the modern world.