Hispanic Heritage

Events in Hispanic American History, 1876 – 1900

1492-1600 | 1601-1700 | 1701-1800 | 1801-1825 | 1826-1850 | 1851-1875 | 1876-1900 | 1901-1940
1941-1970 | 1971-

1879

A Cuban independence movement is forcefully put down by Spanish forces.

1880s

In Cuba, slavery is abolished by Spain in a gradual program that takes eight years. The influx of new European immigrants has made Cuba more heterogeneous, leading to the social diversity that is still apparent today.

Mexican immigration to the United States is stimulated by the advent of the railroad.

1892

The Partido Revolucionario Cubano is created to organize the Cuban and Puerto Rican independence movement.

1894

The Alianza Hispano Americana is founded in Tucson, Arizona, and quickly spreads throughout the Southwest.

1895

José Martí and his Cuban Revolutionary Party (PRC) open the final battle for independence.

1896

A Revolutionary Junta is formed in New York to lead the Puerto Rican independence movement.

1897

Spain grants Cuba and Puerto Rico autonomy and home rule.

1898

April. The USS Maine mysteriously explodes in Havana Harbor. On April 28, President William McKinley declares war against Spain.

May. The U.S. military invades San Juan in pursuit of Spaniards, and is welcomed by the cheering crowds, longing for independence.

December 10. Spain signs the Treaty of Paris, transferring Cuba, Puerto Rico, and the Philippines to the United States.

The Foraker Act establishes a civilian government in Puerto Rico under U.S. dominance. The law allows for islanders to elect their own House of Representatives, but does not allow Puerto Rico a vote in Washington.

Source: Hispanic-American Almanac, Gale, 1997.