Strategic Map of the Spanish American War

War Map Publishing Co. released a map showing the naval capabilities and operations of the Spanish American War. This map contains a list of the principal Spanish vessels operating during the war. In this list, the map indicates which vessels were destroyed at Manila. It is evident that a large part of the entire fleet was destroyed, and to inflict such damage during one encounter is monumental for the American war effort. After the Battle of Manila, the United States experienced full domination of the seas around the Philippines. During the 19th century, naval supremacy was one of the most important factors of warfare. It meant controlling many key aspects such as troop movements, communication, reinforcements, and supply routes. Furthermore, the Battle of Manila solidified American naval superiority. In Dewey’s report, it is evident that his fleet’s actions demonstrated the superiority of American naval gunnery and its technological advantages. This superiority would be felt in the later naval battles of the war such as the battle off of Santiago in July 1898. This primary source is very valuable when looking at the Spanish American War because it allows a visualisation of the operations of the war. This map therefore allows easier comprehension of the events of the Spanish American War as well as a closer look into the vessels used and lost in the conflict.