Which event led to the phrase "Remember the Maine!" becoming a rallying cry for war?

Study for the American Imperialism Exam. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with explanations. Prepare for success!

The phrase "Remember the Maine!" became a rallying cry for war following the sinking of the USS Maine in Havana harbor in 1898. This incident was pivotal in stirring public sentiment against Spain. The USS Maine was sent to Cuba to protect American interests during a time of increasing tensions due to the Cuban War of Independence. When the battleship exploded on February 15, 1898, killing over 260 sailors, the American public and the press quickly blamed Spain for the incident, despite the lack of definitive evidence pointing to Spanish involvement.

This event effectively galvanized public opinion and fostered a sense of national outrage, leading to calls for action against Spain, which ultimately resulted in the Spanish-American War. The slogan captured the emotions of the American populace and became synonymous with the push for military intervention to avenge the fallen ship and its crew. The sensationalist journalism of the time further amplified this rallying cry, making it a powerful tool in the push towards imperialism.

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