Question 5 of 5
Which of the following was a factor leading to the U.S. decision to declare war on Spain in 1898?
A.
isolationist policy
B.
labor union pressure
C.
yellow journalism
D.
unrestricted naval warfare
C. yellow journalism
The correct answer is C. yellow journalism.
Yellow journalism played a significant role in the United States' decision to declare war on Spain in 1898. Yellow journalism refers to the use of sensationalism and exaggeration in news reporting to attract readership. In the case of the Spanish-American War, publishers like William Randolph Hearst and Joseph Pulitzer used their newspapers to exaggerate and sensationalize events happening in Cuba, which was then a Spanish colony.
By reporting on Spanish atrocities and framing the conflict in a way that invoked sympathy and outrage among the American public, these newspapers successfully influenced public opinion and created a strong sentiment in favor of going to war with Spain. The sensational stories and exaggerated headlines portrayed Spain as an oppressive and brutal regime, consequently fueling a desire for intervention.
To find this answer, you would need to have some background knowledge of the events leading up to the Spanish-American War in 1898. Understanding the role of yellow journalism, its influence on public opinion, and the impact it had on shaping U.S. foreign policy can help you identify this as the correct answer option. Additionally, learning about the key figures and newspapers involved in yellow journalism during that time period can further cement your understanding of the role it played in the decision to declare war on Spain.
The correct answer is C. yellow journalism.
Yellow journalism was a major factor leading to the U.S. decision to declare war on Spain in 1898. Yellow journalism refers to the practice of sensationalizing news stories to attract readers. In the case of the Spanish-American War, some newspapers exaggerated or fabricated stories about Spanish atrocities in Cuba, which inflamed public opinion and created a desire for war. This, in turn, put pressure on the U.S. government to take action against Spain.