Question

why did late-1890s newspapers publish sensational stories about cuba and the spanish - american war?
newspapers used the stories to sell more papers.
newspapers wanted other countries to know that the united states was watching cuba closely.
the stories helped elected us officials learn about what was happening.
the stories were meant to attract more spanish and cuban readers in the united states.

Explanation:

In the late 1890s, newspapers were businesses. Sensational stories (yellow journalism) were a way to increase readership. By making stories about Cuba and the Spanish - American War more dramatic, they could sell more papers.

Answer:

Newspapers used the stories to sell more papers.