What was the Platt Amendment, and how did it affect Cuba?

The Platt Amendment was a significant piece of legislation passed by the United States in 1901 that had profound implications for Cuba's sovereignty following the Spanish-American War. Its primary purpose was to outline the conditions under which the U.S. would withdraw its military forces from Cuba, which had been occupied by American troops following the war. However, rather than granting Cuba full autonomy, the amendment imposed several restrictions on the country's sovereignty.

One of the key aspects of the Platt Amendment was that it authorized the U.S. government to intervene in Cuban affairs whenever it deemed necessary to maintain order or protect American interests. This effectively limited Cuba's ability to operate as a fully independent nation, as the U.S. retained significant control over its foreign policy and military actions. Additionally, the amendment required Cuba to lease naval bases to the U.S., most notably Guantanamo Bay, further cementing American influence over the island.

In contrast to the other options, which either suggest increased independence or focus on economic support or military development, the Platt Amendment clearly established a framework for U.S. dominance in Cuba, ultimately restricting its sovereignty and allowing for regular intervention by American forces.