What is the Spanish-American War?

The Spanish-American started and ended in 1898. The war lasted only 4 months, however, the results of this war would catapult the U.S. into a global power. Making the Spanish-American war the strongest example of the Monroe Doctrine, expanding U.S. imperialism and influence across the Caribbean and even into Asia. The war concluded with the signing of the Treaty of Paris in December, forcing Spain to give up almost the entirety of its overseas territories, including Cuba, Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines. 

"The Spanish-American War: Explained (Short Animated Documentary)"