Problem 1) On February 15, 1898, an explosion of unknown origin sank the battleship U.S.S. Maine in Havana, Cuba harbor, killing 266 of the 354 crew members. The sinking of the Maine encouraged the United States' passion against Spain, eventually leading to a naval blockade of Cuba and a declaration of war. If you were living in the United States in 1898, what would you want your government to do in response to this? Why?
Problem 2) Directions: In your groups, examine the documents provided. On chart paper, identify ONE social, ONE political, and ONE economic cause of the Spanish American War. Evaluate the reasons in your group and together make a claim on whether or not the United States should have been involved in the Spanish American War. You may research different causes as well to back up your claim. (Please provide your source on the chart paper.)
Problem 3) Summary Discussion: What connections can you make between the Spanish American War and Yellow Journalism to the American government and our discussion of "fake news" today? Jot down thoughts/notes for the discussion.