The Spanish-American War of 1898 was a conflict between the United States and Spain that began as a result of the Cuban War of Independence. The Cuban struggle for independence began in 1895 and was heavily influenced by the United States, which had long expressed its support for the Cuban cause. The war was ultimately brought to an end with the signing of the Treaty of Paris on December 10, 1898.

Newspapers played a major role in the war by providing the public with information about the conflict. American newspapers provided extensive coverage of the war, including detailed reports of battles and other events. This coverage was often biased in favor of the United States, as newspapers sought to build public support for the war effort. This media coverage helped to rally the public behind the cause of US intervention in the conflict and was a key factor in the US decision to declare war on Spain in 1898.

One of the most influential newspaper writers of the period was William Randolph Hearst. Hearst was the owner of several newspapers and was well known for his sensationalist style of writing. He used his papers to promote the US war effort in Cuba and was one of the most vocal advocates for US intervention. Hearst's coverage of the war was instrumental in building public support for the US position and ultimately helped lead to the US declaration of war in 1898. 

The United States declared war against Spain on April 25, 1898, after a series of incidents involving American and Spanish naval forces in the Caribbean, which had been exacerbated by the publication of the “de Lôme letter” in the New York Journal. This letter, written by Spanish Minister Enrique Dupuy de Lôme, was highly critical of President McKinley and was seen as an insult to the United States.

Before the declaration of war, the American press had been overwhelmingly supportive of war with Spain. They had been reporting on the atrocities committed by Spanish forces in Cuba and had been calling for the United States to intervene. The press viewed the war as an opportunity for the United States to free Cuba from Spanish rule and make it a part of the American Empire.

The press also played an important role in stirring up nationalism and rallying public support for the war. It was through the press that many Americans were able to learn about the war and understand why it was necessary to go to war with Spain. The press was a powerful tool in helping to unite the nation and generate enthusiasm for the war effort. 

The press was also influential in helping to shape public opinion of the war. Many newspapers argued that the war was a just cause and that the United States was fighting for a noble cause. This helped to create a sense of unity and patriotism among the American people and helped to rally support for the war effort. 

The Spanish-American War of 1898 was a major international conflict, and the role of the news media in bringing the conflict to the attention of the American public cannot be denied. Newspapers were instrumental in bringing the issue of Cuba to the forefront of American politics, and in helping to shape public opinion in favor of a declaration of war against Spain. This ultimately led to the United States entering the conflict, and helped to shape the course of the 20th century.