The Battle of San Juan Hill
American Imperialism Activity
Defenition
A battle fought in San Juan Hill (July 1, 1898), the southern coast of Cuba, it was a decisive battle of the Spanish-American War. This battle was the bloodiest and most famous of the War. It could be described as the Spanish-American War's Battle of Bunker Hill.
Details
- Cause: 750 Spanish Soldiers were ordered to hold the heights against an American offensive. There reasons for that are still not clear today. As part of their a American campaign, the U.S. Army need to capture Spanish-held Santiago de Cuba. The U.S. Army Fifth Corps engage Spanish forces at el Caney and San Juan Hill.
- Fun Fact: Theodore Roosevelt was present during this war with the "rought riders". The "rough riders" consisted mostly ofWestern Cowboys and colleges students. They were also known as the First United States Volutary Cavalry.
- Significance: The battle of San Juan Hill was a decisive moment for the United States because if they captured San Juan Heights then they would be able to attack Santiago, a major port city that where a Spanish naval squadrom was based. Also, It was also the location of the greatest victory for the "rough riders" claimed by the press and its new commander, the future Vice-President and later President, Theodore Roosevelt.