Which territories did the U.S. acquire as a result of the Spanish-American War?

The acquisition of Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines by the United States as a result of the Spanish-American War is a key aspect of American imperialism at the turn of the 20th century. This conflict in 1898 marked a significant turning point, as it resulted not only in the defeat of Spain, but also in the expansion of U.S. territory beyond the continental borders.

When the war concluded, the Treaty of Paris was signed, which formalized the terms of the peace and recognized U.S. control over these territories. Puerto Rico and Guam were ceded directly to the U.S., while the Philippines were purchased for $20 million. This marked the beginning of a new era in which the United States expanded its influence in the Caribbean and the Pacific, demonstrating its growing power on the global stage.

This acquisition was significant because it reflected the United States' shift from a focus on continental expansion to overseas imperialism, paving the way for future engagements and territorial holdings in various regions around the world.