What effect did the Spanish-American War have on U.S. global standing?

The Spanish-American War was a pivotal moment in U.S. history that significantly altered the nation's global standing. Following the war, the United States emerged not just as a national power but as an emerging global power with overseas territories. The war resulted in the U.S. gaining control over former Spanish colonies such as Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines. This expansion marked the U.S.'s transition from a continental power to an imperial one, indicating a new level of involvement in international affairs and colonialism.

The victory over Spain demonstrated military capabilities and bolstered national pride, thereby enhancing the U.S.'s reputation on the global stage. Furthermore, the war prompted a shift in U.S. foreign policy that increasingly involved itself in the affairs of other nations, showcasing a growing influence in both the Western Hemisphere and beyond. This newfound status allowed the U.S. to engage in international negotiations and establish itself firmly amongst the leading world powers of the era.