When was the De Lome letter published?

The De Lome letter was published in 1898. This letter, written by the Spanish diplomat Enrique Dupuy de Lôme, criticized U.S. President William McKinley and indicated Spain's disdain for the U.S. involvement in Cuba. Its publication in February 1898 significantly inflamed public opinion in the United States against Spain, contributing to the onset of the Spanish-American War.

The other dates do not correspond to the publication of the letter. 1885 and 1900 are outside the time frame of the letter's importance and its publication. Additionally, 1896 is too early, considering the political context and events leading up to the war occurred around 1898. Thus, the correct year for the publication aligns with a critical moment in history leading to greater U.S. involvement in foreign affairs.