Delitte, Jean-Yves Die großen Seeschlachten. Volume 21: Santiago de Cuba 1898

In January 1898, the USA decided to send one of its warships to Cuba as it was increasingly concerned about the unrest on the island. Cuba was still Spanish territory, and with this manoeuvre the USA wanted to let the Spanish know that they were keeping a close eye on events. Unfortunately, what was planned as an intimidation tactic turned into a tragedy.

As night fell over the calm waters of Havana harbour on 15 February 1898, a powerful explosion ripped open the sides of the USS "Maine". It was 9.40 pm and the American battleship sank in a matter of minutes. Accident or attack, whatever, the American President William McKinley, who wanted to avoid conflict, could not hesitate for long. Fuelled by an inflamed press screaming for revenge, war broke out between the US and Spain on 25 April 1898 and things spiralled out of control. Although the Spanish forces appeared clearly superior on paper, the island was isolated within weeks, a naval blockade was established around Santiago de Cuba and the American forces quickly advanced inland. For Admiral Pascual Cervera y Topete, the only way to escape the trap was to break through the naval blockade. But his flotilla was very weak compared to the impressive armada of the US navy. On 3 July 1898 came the hour of confrontation so anticipated by some and so feared by others!