The Spanish-American War was a short but important war fought between Spain and the United States in 1898 . It was mainly connected to Spain's control of Cuba and the growing American interest in events in the Caribbean and the Pacific. The war lasted only about four months, but it significantly changed the balance of power in the world. Background During the 19th century, Spain controlled several overseas territories, including Cuba, Puerto Rico, Guam and the Philippines . Cuba was particularly important because it was located close to the United States. Many Cubans wanted independence from Spanish rule. Several rebellions occurred, including the Ten Years' War (1868–1878) and another major uprising that began in 1895. The Cuban struggle attracted considerable attention in the United States. American newspapers published dramatic stories about Spanish actions in Cuba, increasing public sympathy for the Cuban independence movement. This sensational style of reporting b...