What was one of the consequences of the U.S. victory in the Spanish-American War?

The U.S. victory in the Spanish-American War marked a significant turning point in American foreign policy and its role on the world stage. One of the most notable consequences of this victory was the acquisition of overseas territories. After defeating Spain, the United States gained control over several important territories, including Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines. This expansion was pivotal for establishing the U.S. as a global power and marked the beginning of an era of American imperialism. The acquisition of these territories not only expanded American influence in the Caribbean and the Pacific but also raised questions about the role of the U.S. in international affairs and colonial governance. This shift had lasting implications for U.S. foreign policy and its relationship with other nations, particularly those in former colonial empires.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately reflect the outcomes of the war in relation to American expansionism and influence. While the British Empire and World War I are historically significant, they are not direct consequences of the Spanish-American War. Moreover, while Cuba did gain formal independence after the war, it was heavily influenced by the U.S., which maintained significant control over Cuban affairs through the Platt Amendment, complicating the narrative of true independence. Thus, the acquisition of overseas