The Spanish-American War was a conflict fought between the United States and Spain in 1898. It began primarily over issues related to the independence of Cuba, which was struggling against Spanish colonial rule. The war lasted only a few months and resulted in a decisive victory for the United States. As a result of the war, the United States gained control of several territories, including Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines. The conflict marked a significant turning point in U.S. foreign policy, signaling its emergence as a global power and its interest in overseas expansion.