U.S. Troops Land at Daiquirí, Cuba
June 22nd, 1898
June 22nd, 1898
How Long Ago?
126 years, 10 months, 7 days ago
Location
Daiquirí, Cuba
Category
Military & Warfare
War/Conflict
Spanish-American War
People
- William Rufus Shafter
- Arsenio Linares y Pombo
Links & References
- Cuba
- Santiago de Cuba
- Spanish–American War
- Fifth Army Corps (Spanish–American War)
- Daiquirí
- Arsenio Linares y Pombo
- Spanish Army
Tags
U.S. Troops Land at Daiquirí, Cuba
A chaotic military operation unfolded as 6,000 men of the U.S. Fifth Army Corps landed at Daiquirí, Cuba, approximately 16 miles east of Santiago de Cuba. Although outnumbered two-to-one, the Spanish forces, led by Lt. Gen. Arsenio Linares y Pombo, chose not to contest the landings. This initial landing marked the beginning of U.S. ground operations aimed at capturing Santiago, a strategic objective during the Spanish-American War.
6,000 U.S. troops landed at Daiquirí.
Spanish forces had a two-to-one advantage.
The operation was marked by chaos.
The landing aimed to capture Santiago de Cuba.
What Happened?
The landing of 6,000 men from the U.S. Fifth Army Corps at Daiquirí, Cuba, was a significant military operation during the Spanish-American War. Arriving approximately 16 miles east of Santiago de Cuba, the American forces faced a precarious situation. Despite Lt. Gen. Arsenio Linares y Pombo of the Spanish Army outnumbering them two-to-one, the Spanish commander made the strategic decision not to confront the landing party. The operation was characterized by chaos, but it signaled the start of a series of aggressive maneuvers aimed at securing a crucial foothold in Cuba. The objective was clear: capture the city of Santiago, which was vital for controlling the region.The U.S. had been seeking to weaken Spanish colonial rule and ensure the independence of Cuban forces fighting against Spain. As the Fifth Army Corps, commanded by Major General William Rufus Shafter, disembarked in Daiquirí, they faced logistical challenges and the immediate need to establish a defensive perimeter. The successful establishment of a beachhead at Daiquirí facilitated subsequent operations aimed at encircling Santiago. Supplies were landed, and the troops began to consolidate their position in preparation for the ensuing battles. This operation was part of a larger strategy to exert U.S. military power and establish a foothold in the Caribbean.
Why Does it Matter?
The landing at Daiquirí was pivotal in the Spanish-American War, marking the beginning of intensive U.S. military operations against Spanish forces in Cuba. The successful initial landing laid the groundwork for further advances that would ultimately lead to decisive victories against Spain, showcasing America's emerging military capabilities and influence on the global stage. It painted a picture of U.S. resolve and determination to end colonial oppression in the Americas.
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