LAD #22

In 1895 fighting broke out between Cuba and Spain, with Cuba hoping to gain their independence and break away from Spanish rule.  America hoped for Cuban independence, but was hesitant to get involved in the war without good cause.  This cause was created when the U.S.S Maine blew up in a Cuban harbor three years later, giving Americans the cause they wanted.

In his message to Congress McKinley stated that the war was now having a direct impact on the Americans, and that the atrocities committed in this war were incredible.  He also said that it was having a significant impact on the economy as America had much trade with Cuba but it was being slowed by the war.  McKinley then pointed out that the war had been raging for three years and neither side had a clear advantage so America must either act as a neutral nation and help negotiate peace or act on one side to help end the war.  McKinley said that America must enter the war to help Cuba to stop the atrocities by Spain, protect the Cubans, save the trade, and  protect freedom.  McKinley then concluded by urging that America go to Cuba because of the blowing up of the Maine, which was claimed to have been blown up by a Spanish torpedo.