"The U.S.S. Maine Blown Up in Havana Harbor—268 Men Lost" shouted the headlines of the day. Using archival footage, newspaper excerpts, and historical documents, this program traces the roots of the Spanish-American War to Spain’s quest to preserve its flagging empire, American imperialism, and the genuine desire on the part of Cubans to shake off the yoke of Spanish domination. It closely examines the role of Cuba’s poet/patriot José Martí, exposes American expansionist policies that contributed to our decision to enter the war, and reveals Spanish attempts to thwart open conflict. (50 minutes)