LAD/Blog #23 : McKinley's War Message

William McKinley did not support the war, but he gave in to the people's calls. He then realized he would have to address the conflict and the concern of the people. H recognizes that rebellions in Cuba happened often and Cuba was trying to escape oppression. Even though they have attempted to avoid foreign involvement, trade was suffering, money was being lost and people were becoming angry. Peace attempts were made, but Spain remained in control. McKinley wants to physically exhaust the Spanish as a military victory seems impractical. The Spanish did not plan to give up Cuba. McKinley voiced how his views have changed with time and he now believes Unites States intervention is justified. He asks Congress for four reasons: it is America's duty to end inhumane treatment, America should protect those who can not protect themselves, offenses to commerce, trade, and industry were made, and the affairs in Cuba could risk peace in America. McKinley also discusses demolition of Maine which lead to anger and horror. Finally, he  acknowledges that Spain may attempt to make peace.  He says if the war is successful, people will be saved, if not their actions were more then justified.

McKinley's War Message was similar to the Cuban missile crisis, in that the United States was affected by actions in Cuba that made people nervous. 

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