In August 1898, during the Spanish–American War, American troops landed in the city of Mayagüez, Puerto Rico, as part of a broader campaign to eliminate Spanish colonial power in the Caribbean. Previous naval engagements had given the American forces an operational advantage, allowing them to execute landings with relative ease. The capture of Mayagüez played a crucial role in the U.S. military strategy, as securing Puerto Rico was essential for controlling the Greater Antilles and ensuring the success of future operations against Spain.

The landing was executed by U.S. Army units that had been mobilized in preparation for the campaign. They encountered minimal resistance from Spanish troops, which allowed for a swift takeover of the city. The occupation was characterized by efforts to establish order and support local governance, navigating through any infrastructure challenges that arose in the wake of military control. The operation highlighted the effectiveness of the U.S. military strategies employed during this conflict, especially the coordination between naval and ground forces.

The event ultimately contributed to the larger narrative of U.S. expansionism and imperial ambition at the turn of the century. American occupation forces in Puerto Rico sought to reassure the local population and stabilize the region following the hostilities. As the fighting continued in other fronts of the war, the control of Mayagüez bolstered the United States’ position in negotiations that would solidify their presence in the Caribbean, foreshadowing future geopolitical involvements in the area.