AICE International History Practice Exam

The term that describes the sensationalist journalism that played a crucial role in the lead-up to the Spanish-Cuban War is yellow journalism. This style of reporting was characterized by exaggerated headlines, emotional language, and dramatic stories to attract readers and generate public interest. Yellow journalism often sacrificed accuracy for sensationalism, fueling public outrage and jingoism, particularly in the United States, which ultimately contributed to American intervention in the conflict.

During this period, newspapers like those owned by William Randolph Hearst and Joseph Pulitzer published inflammatory articles regarding the conditions in Cuba, depicting the Spanish authorities as brutal oppressors. This manipulation of information swayed public opinion and intensified calls for war, illustrating how yellow journalism can shape political events and decisions through its influence on popular sentiment.