War Changing America Essays Example

Wars can be defined as an armed clash between nations. Previously, wars were held between different countries to protect their rights or take over certain land. Several wars have been witnessed between America and different countries which have brought success and failures for America and have also left its impact for years.
One such war is Philippine-America war that was held in 1899-1902. The war was started by Filipino revolutionaries to get independence from the Americans. The Filipinos had started their independence fight since 1896 which resulted in a full-fledged war that continued for around 3 years, 1 month and 2 days. Finally, it ended with a victory for Americans, and they were successful to take over Philippines and end their dreams of independence.
Although war brought success for Americans but it also resulted in certain changes for America. The Americans were successful in extending their territory and Philippines became an incorporated territory of America. As they controlled over the Philippine area, they also spread their language across the island that was a big victory in terms of cultural advancement. English language was made the official language of government and was spread in every important sector such as education, politics, business and government. Thus, within a few years; English language was successful in making first place among the educated and upper class.
Although Americans became very brutal with the Philippines to gain control over their territory, but by doing so, they were able to make their military power recognize all over the world.
Another war that brought lasting changes in America and is still remembered by the people and historians is the Spanish American war. The war took place for a short period of four months and started due to the brutality of the Spanish people over the people of Cuba.
The war was precise, but it cured many wounds that were caused by the civil war. The people of north and south combined to fight against Spain and Americans were successful to make their place in Cuba. Many militants who fought in this war took their revenge of civil war and their loss in the war due to Spanish.
The biggest change for America of the American-Spanish war was the country was finally recognized as the world power. Within a few years of the war, the president of America got an equal place with the European leader. Therefore, the war acted as an energizer and a break- through for America.
Although, after the war, America surrendered most possessions of Spain but this act helped to unite North and South and marked the way to American empire. The Americans were successful to gain much respect after this war due to their help for Cuba and returning the possessions of Spain.
Lastly, an amendment was passed Platt Amendment, which increased Cuba's dependency on America namely. The amendment gave rights to American military for intervention in Cuba whenever there would be a need, and it also limits Cuba to sign any foreign treaty without the consent of America. This dependency of Cuba is one the major success for America.
Therefore, the war was a short fight between Spain and America but it has brought lasting effects on America.