The main reason for the Spanish-American War in 1898 was the desire for American intervention in Cuba, which was fighting for independence from Spanish rule. The war was fueled by sensationalist journalism, known as yellow journalism, which exaggerated Spanish atrocities and stirred public opinion in favor of intervention. The explosion of the USS Maine in Havana Harbor further escalated tensions, leading to a declaration of war. The conflict resulted in a quick victory for the United States, granting America control over former Spanish territories, including Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines, and establishing the U.S. as a global power.