Cuban War for Independence

The Cuban War for Independence was a conflict fought between the Kingdom of Spain and Cuba with Colombian intervention.

The Conflict

Prelude

Cuba had been under the dominion of Spain even as the other Spanish holdings in America had gained their independence. Cuba began an insurrection in 1868, beginning the war. Spain sent their Atlantic fleet to suppress the insurrection. The American powers objected to this, many citing the Continental Ordinance. Spain did not recognize the legality of the document. Gran Colombia, though not being a signatory of the Ordinance, became the most vocal supporter of Cuba, and declared war on Spain.

Deployment

Colombia deployed their navy in order to gain dominance of the sea around Cuba. After a series of engagements with the Spanish navy, Colombia landed amphibious units on Cuban soil. Spanish forces on the island were significant, and obtaining significant land holdings proved to be difficult for the Colombian army.
Spain attempted to deploy their Pacific fleet in support of military operations in Cuba. However, they were incapable of securing allies in the Americas for resupplying, and therefore were unable to make the journey.
Haiti sent their navy and utilized similar tactics when securing the island of Puerto Rico.

Conditions

While the armies gathered on Cuba, disease began to set in. Yellow fever became rampant, and many soldiers succumed to the disease than killed in combat.

The Engagement

The combined Colombian and Haitian navies, though they did not coordinate efforts, successfully defeated the Spanish fleet stationed in the Caribbean. Once the armies had engaged on land, the navy's role changed to that of resupply and patrols.

Outcome

Spain was expelled from the final American territories it held in totality. Cuba was recognized as an independent nation, though quickly joined Gran Colombia. Haiti took control of the island of Puerto Rico.

Aftermath

Though they did not send militzry forces, America politicians attempted to gain Cuba for themselves. America attempted to have Cuba be a seperate and independent nation, with some even offering to purchase the island. However, these negotiations were rejected, and America could not garner support for their desires.
Haiti annexes Puerto Rico, informally establishing the Caribbean Empire. This is overshadowed by the American and Colombian dispute actions.

Historical Significance

Legacy

American politicians became very alarmed by a adversarial government so close to their territory. Though they were bordered by many republics, none had shown hostilities to monarchies quite as much as Gran Colombia. This feuled the Cold War brewing between America and Gran Colombia.

Conflict Type

War

Start Date

1868

Ending Date

1872

Conflict Result

Colombian Victory

Belligerents

Colombia, Cuba, Haiti

Spain

Strength

Casualties

Objectives

Expel the remaining Spanish forces from the Americas.

Quell the rebellion and reassert control over its Caribbean holdings.