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The United States had long held an interest in Cuba since it was only 90 miles off of the coast. In response to the US's attempt at purchasing it, the Spanish said they would rather see Cuba sunk in the ocean.
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Cuba's first war for independence, also known as the 10 Years War, lasted from 1868-1878. Despite the revolt being unsuccessful it did force the Spanish to abolish slavery.
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Yellow journalism caused the United States to erupt in a "war fever".
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José Martí led Cuba's second war for independence who was also a poet and journalist.
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Spain sent Valeriano Weyler to Cuba to restore order. He started reconcentration camps where many Cubans died of hunger and disease.
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On February 15th the USS Maine explodes in Havanna Harbor killing 260 people.
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Despite the Spanish agreeing to the US's terms, public opinion favored going to war with Spain which after a week of debate Congress officially declared war against Spain.
