Crucible of Empire: The Spanish-American War

The Spanish-American War of 1898 was a lopsided conflict that came at a time when: 1) the United States was ready to exercise its growing global power, and 2) William Randolph Hearst wanted to establish himself as a media giant. The atrocities committed by Spain against Cuba and the Philippines gave both the U.S. and Hearst a chance to expand their influence, and this excellent program vividly depicts the often clumsy steps America took in its first international conflict. Of special interest is the opportunity to see rare, hundred-year old newsreel photography that not only brought the war into virtually every part of the country, but also helped to stir public support for President McKinley's actions. Skillfully interweaving historical newsreel footage, contemporary interviews, and popular songs, this fast-paced, fact-filled examination of one of America's lesser (and less known) wars is a captivating overview that touches on a wide number of themes. Highly recommended. Aud: H, C, P. (J. Carlson)