Which territory was acquired by the U.S. from Spain following the Spanish-American War?

The territory acquired by the U.S. from Spain following the Spanish-American War was the Philippines. This conflict occurred in 1898 and marked a significant moment in U.S. history, as it signified the United States' emergence as a global power. The Treaty of Paris, which concluded the war, resulted in Spain ceding several of its territories to the United States, including the Philippines.

The acquisition of the Philippines was strategic; it allowed the U.S. greater presence in Asia and showed its growing influence in international affairs. The war was largely fueled by U.S. support for Cuban independence, but it ultimately led to American control over these territories, expanding the nation beyond its continental borders. The Philippines became a critical location for American naval forces and trade routes in the Pacific.

Guam was also acquired from Spain as part of the same treaty, but the Philippines represents a much larger and more influential acquisition. Hawaii was an independent kingdom annexed later in 1898, and Alaska was purchased from Russia years earlier in 1867. Therefore, while Guam was obtained, the significant impact of acquiring the Philippines was largely what defined U.S. territorial expansion during this period.