OAE Integrated Social Studies (025) Practice Exam 2026 - Free Integrated Social Studies Practice Questions and Study Guide

The practice that contributed to the start of the Spanish American War was yellow journalism, which significantly influenced public opinion at the time. Yellow journalism refers to sensationalized news reporting that often exaggerated or fabricated events to attract readers and sway public sentiment. In the lead-up to the war, newspapers played a critical role in shaping public perception of the ongoing conflict in Cuba and the treatment of Cuban rebels by Spanish forces.

Public outrage was fueled by graphic accounts and vivid imagery of the suffering Cuban people, which were often exaggerated or presented without full context. This sensationalist coverage created a strong emotional response among the American public and increased calls for intervention in Cuba.

Additionally, yellow journalism helped promote the idea that the U.S. had a moral obligation to intervene, which aligned with broader imperialistic sentiments of the time. This media-driven public pressure ultimately contributed to the U.S. government's decision to go to war with Spain in 1898, marking a significant moment in American foreign policy history.

The other practices mentioned, such as military drafts from the Caribbean, negotiations with Spanish diplomats, and support for native tribes against colonial powers, did not have the same direct and immediate impact on the public sentiment that yellow journalism did, making the latter the key factor in igniting