What was the main consequence of the Spanish-American War?

The main consequence of the Spanish-American War was that the United States gained significant territories, including Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines. This outcome marked a turning point in U.S. foreign policy and propelled the nation onto the world stage as an imperial power. The acquisition of these territories allowed the United States to expand its influence in the Caribbean and the Pacific, reshaping its economic and military strategies.

Puerto Rico became a U.S. territory, altering its governance and relationship with the mainland. Guam's acquisition established a strategic naval base for the U.S. in the Pacific, while the Philippines presented both an opportunity for trade in Asia and challenges related to colonial governance, leading to further conflict and confrontation with Filipino nationalists. This expansion represented a shift from isolationist policies to a more interventionist stance, reflecting the growing nationalist sentiment and desire for economic expansion in the late 19th century.

Understanding this context helps to grasp the lasting implications of the war on U.S. domestic and foreign policy and the new role that the United States claimed following its victory over Spain.