Which event sparked the beginning of the Spanish-American War?

The explosion of the USS Maine in Havana Harbor served as a crucial catalyst for the Spanish-American War. On February 15, 1898, the USS Maine, which was stationed in Havana to protect American interests amid increasing tensions in Cuba, was destroyed by an explosion that killed 266 crew members. Although the exact cause of the explosion remains debated, the incident was heavily sensationalized by the U.S. press, leading to public outrage against Spain.

The media framing of the explosion intensified anti-Spanish sentiment and spurred calls for military action, exemplified by the rallying cry "Remember the Maine!" This sentiment played a significant role in mobilizing public opinion and political support for intervention in Cuba. Consequently, the U.S. declared war on Spain in April 1898, marking the beginning of the Spanish-American War. This event highlighted the interplay between media influence, public sentiment, and foreign policy decisions in the context of American imperialism.