What was the outcome of the Treaty of Paris signed in December 1898?

The Treaty of Paris signed in December 1898 marked a significant milestone as it officially ended the Spanish-American War. This conflict arose from the U.S. intervention in the Cuban War of Independence, fueled by a mixture of humanitarian concerns and imperial ambitions. The treaty resulted in Spain relinquishing its control over Cuba and ceding Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines to the United States. This outcome not only concluded military hostilities but also initiated a new phase of American expansionism, as the acquisition of new territories marked a shift in U.S. foreign policy towards imperialism at the turn of the 20th century. The agreement effectively transformed the United States into a colonial power, evidenced by its new territories and the responsibilities that came with them. Understanding this context illustrates the broader implications of the treaty beyond merely ending the conflict.