On what date did the USS Maine sink?

The USS Maine sank on February 15, 1898. This event is particularly significant because it acted as a catalyst for the Spanish-American War. The explosion of the USS Maine, which was docked in Havana harbor, led to heightened tensions between the United States and Spain. The phrase "Remember the Maine!" became a rallying cry for those advocating for American intervention in Cuba, where there was a growing movement for independence from Spanish rule. This incident marked a turning point in U.S. foreign policy, shifting toward a more interventionist stance, and highlighted the influence of media and public opinion in shaping historical events. Understanding this date and its implications is essential for grasping the broader context of American imperialism in the late 19th century.