Which territory was acquired by the United States as a result of the Spanish-American War?

The territory acquired by the United States as a result of the Spanish-American War is Guam. Following the war, which concluded in 1898, the Treaty of Paris was signed, leading to significant territorial gains for the U.S. Guam was ceded to the United States by Spain alongside Puerto Rico and the Philippines. This acquisition marked a turning point in U.S. foreign policy, reflecting a shift towards imperialism as the nation sought to expand its influence and control territories beyond its continental borders.

The Philippines, while also acquired as part of the Treaty of Paris, was not the correct answer in this instance. Hawaii and Alaska were not acquired as outcomes of the Spanish-American War; Hawaii was annexed in 1898 through a different process, while Alaska was purchased from Russia in 1867. Understanding the specific context of the Spanish-American War and its repercussions is crucial in identifying Guam as the correct answer.