USS Maine Explosion in Havana Harbor Remembered

The 1898 incident that brought the U.S. closer to war with Spain

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

On February 15, 1898, the battleship USS Maine mysteriously exploded in Havana Harbor, killing more than 260 crew members and bringing the United States closer to war with Spain. This tragic event is remembered as a pivotal moment in history that set the stage for the Spanish-American War.

Why it matters

The explosion of the USS Maine in Havana Harbor was a major catalyst that led to the Spanish-American War, a conflict that resulted in the United States gaining control of territories such as Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines. The incident also heightened tensions between the U.S. and Spain, ultimately shaping the geopolitical landscape of the early 20th century.

The details

The exact cause of the USS Maine explosion remains a mystery, but the incident was widely blamed on Spain at the time. The tragedy killed over 260 American sailors and led to a period of increased nationalism and calls for war against Spain from the American public and government.

  • On February 15, 1898, the USS Maine exploded in Havana Harbor.
  • In 1898, the explosion of the USS Maine brought the United States closer to war with Spain.

The players

USS Maine

The American battleship that mysteriously exploded in Havana Harbor in 1898, killing over 260 crew members and serving as a catalyst for the Spanish-American War.

Spain

The country that was widely blamed for the explosion of the USS Maine, despite the exact cause remaining a mystery, leading to increased tensions and the eventual outbreak of the Spanish-American War.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

The explosion of the USS Maine in Havana Harbor was a pivotal moment in history that had far-reaching consequences, ultimately leading to the Spanish-American War and the United States' acquisition of new territories. This incident serves as a reminder of how a single event can dramatically shape the course of international relations and geopolitics.