Question

question 4 of 10

which event sparked the spanish-american war?

a. the republic of cuba receiving its independence
b. the u.s. invasion of the island of guam
c. the sinking of the uss maine in havana harbor
d. an argument between mckinley and the spanish ambassador

Explanation:

Identify the immediate cause of the war

The Spanish-American War (1898) was triggered by the sudden explosion and sinking of the battleship USS Maine in Havana Harbor, Cuba, on February 15, 1898.

Evaluate the given options

• Option A describes a result of the war rather than its spark.
• Option B describes a military action that occurred during the war.
• Option C correctly identifies the sinking of the USS Maine, which galvanized American public opinion and led directly to the declaration of war.
• Option D refers to diplomatic tensions (such as the De Lôme Letter) but was not the physical event that sparked the conflict.

Answer:

• (A) The Republic of Cuba receiving its independence
• (B) The U.S. invasion of the island of Guam
• (C) The sinking of the USS Maine in Havana Harbor (Correct answer)
• (D) An argument between McKinley and the Spanish ambassador