"Bringing History Home: How Jacksonville's Camp Cuba Libre Connects Students to the Spanish-American War"
Daniel Flint
Professional Historian of American History, DEN Star Educator with Discovery Education, 2022 Westside High School Teacher of the Year and 2022 Gilder Lehrman US History Teacher of the year for the State of Florida
By
Daniel Tobias Flint
When teaching the Spanish-American War in my classroom, I use the local history of Camp Cuba Libre here in Jacksonville, Florida, as a powerful tool to engage students and connect them to the broader historical narrative. According to Florida benchmarks SS.912.A.4.2 and SS.912.A.4.3, students analyze the causes and consequences of the war, including U.S. intervention in Cuba and the global implications of acquiring territories like Puerto Rico and the Philippines. While these benchmarks provide a great foundation, what truly engages students is learning about Jacksonville’s direct connection to the conflict.
Camp Cuba Libre, established in 1898 in what is now Springfield, was a training ground for U.S. troops preparing to fight in Cuba. The camp played a significant role in the Spanish-American War, as soldiers stationed there were ready to be deployed to battle. Though the camp no longer exists, its presence in Jacksonville provides a unique local angle on a major historical event. Sharing this history with my students makes the war feel closer to home, allowing them to see how Jacksonville, known as the River City, contributed to this important conflict.
This local connection allows my students to experience history beyond the pages of a textbook. We explore the efforts to preserve the memory of Camp Cuba Libre and how it reflects the city’s involvement in the war. By incorporating this rich history, I inspire students to understand their local heritage while building a deeper connection to the Spanish-American War. Teaching at Duval County Public Schools gives me the opportunity to share these stories and engage students in a way that makes learning both personal and impactful.
News For Jax Story 2016 Preserve the Fort:
The Spanish-American War, 1898
The Spanish-American War marked a pivotal moment in U.S. history, as it ended Spain’s colonial empire in the Western Hemisphere and elevated the United States as a major Pacific power. The conflict lasted only a few months but had lasting consequences, reshaping both U.S. foreign policy and the geopolitical landscape.
The war culminated in a peace treaty that forced Spain to relinquish control of Cuba, which had been struggling for independence for years. Spain also ceded sovereignty over Guam, Puerto Rico, and the Philippines to the United States. At the same time, the U.S. annexed Hawaii, an independent state, bringing it into its growing empire. This expansion allowed the U.S. to establish dominance in the Caribbean and extend its reach into Asia, pursuing strategic and economic interests.
Pre-War Context and Cuban Struggle for Independence
Between 1895 and 1898, Cuban revolutionaries fought for independence from Spain, a struggle that became increasingly violent and unstable. As Cuba was geographically close to the United States, the political and economic upheaval caught American attention. Many in the U.S. were sympathetic to the Cuban cause, especially as reports of brutal Spanish tactics came to light. Furthermore, the longstanding U.S. interest in ridding the Western Hemisphere of European colonial powers intensified the push toward intervention.
Tensions between the United States and Spain escalated throughout 1898, especially after the mysterious sinking of the U.S. battleship Maine in Havana Harbor on February 15, 1898. The explosion, which resulted in the loss of many American sailors, became a rallying cry for war, though the exact cause of the sinking was never definitively proven.
On April 11, 1898, President William McKinley requested congressional authorization to intervene in Cuba, citing the need to restore peace and ensure the security of U.S. citizens on the island. Congress responded by passing a joint resolution on April 20, which acknowledged Cuba’s independence and demanded that Spain relinquish control. When Spain rejected these terms, both countries declared war by the end of April.
The USS Maine: Explosion and Legacy
The USS Maine, a second-class battleship of the U.S. Navy, was commissioned in 1895 and sent to Havana Harbor in January 1898 to protect American interests during the Cuban revolution against Spain. On February 15, 1898, the Maine suddenly exploded, killing 266 of its 354 crew members. The exact cause of the explosion remains a topic of debate, with early investigations attributing it to a Spanish mine, although later research suggested that an internal coal fire may have ignited the ship’s ammunition. Nevertheless, the sinking of the Maine became a rallying cry for American intervention, with the popular slogan "Remember the Maine, to Hell with Spain!" driving the U.S. to declare war on Spain by April 1898.
The legacy of the USS Maine is honored today at Arlington National Cemetery, where the remains of many of the sailors who died in the explosion are interred. A prominent memorial to the ship stands at Arlington, consisting of the ship's salvaged mast, which was installed in 1915. The memorial serves as a reminder of the ship’s tragic loss and the pivotal role it played in the lead-up to the Spanish-American War. Each year, commemorative ceremonies take place to honor the crew members who perished aboard the Maine, symbolizing the ship’s lasting place in American military history and its enduring impact on U.S. foreign policy.
Key Battles and End of the War
The conflict, which U.S. Secretary of State John Hay famously called a "splendid little war," began on May 1, 1898, with the U.S. Navy’s victory over Spanish forces at Manila Bay in the Philippines. U.S. ground forces then landed in Cuba in June, launching campaigns in key locations like Guantanamo Bay and Santiago. The U.S. Navy also destroyed the Spanish Caribbean squadron, further weakening Spanish forces.
By July, Spain sought peace. On August 12, 1898, a ceasefire was signed, and the Treaty of Paris, which ended the war, was ratified in December. In addition to granting Cuba independence, the treaty solidified U.S. control over Guam, Puerto Rico, and the Philippines. Although the U.S. paid $20 million to Spain for the Philippines, the acquisition of these territories marked a significant shift toward imperialism.
The Rough Riders, Teddy Roosevelt, and Leonard Wood
The Rough Riders, formally known as the 1st United States Volunteer Cavalry, were a diverse and famous regiment in the Spanish-American War, best known for their charge up San Juan Hill in Cuba. Led by Theodore "Teddy" Roosevelt, who had resigned from his post as Assistant Secretary of the Navy to join the fight, and Colonel Leonard Wood, a respected military officer and physician, the Rough Riders quickly became a symbol of American heroism and adventure. The regiment was composed of cowboys, miners, ranchers, Native Americans, and Ivy League athletes, reflecting Roosevelt's vision of rugged individualism and patriotism. Under Wood’s initial command, the Rough Riders were trained for battle, but when Wood was promoted to lead a division, Roosevelt took full charge. Their famous assault on Kettle Hill, adjacent to San Juan Hill, on July 1, 1898, solidified Roosevelt’s reputation as a national hero and paved the way for his future presidency.
The Battle of Kettle Hill, which was part of the larger assault on the San Juan Heights during the Spanish-American War, became a defining moment in both American military history and the career of Theodore Roosevelt. On July 1, 1898, Roosevelt’s Rough Riders, along with the African American regiments known as the Buffalo Soldiers—the 9th and 10th Cavalries, as well as the 24th and 25th Infantry Regiments—faced fierce Spanish resistance as they advanced up the heavily fortified heights near Santiago, Cuba. The Rough Riders, a volunteer cavalry unit made up of a diverse group of men, and the Buffalo Soldiers, seasoned, professional African American soldiers, worked together to capture Kettle Hill under intense fire, marking a turning point in the U.S. campaign.
While Roosevelt often took the spotlight for leading the Rough Riders, the Buffalo Soldiers played an equally, if not more, critical role in the success of the assault. Despite being subjected to racism and segregation within the military, they performed bravely and effectively, showcasing their skill and discipline in battle. John J. "Black Jack" Pershing, who would later rise to prominence as a general in World War I, was a commanding officer of the 10th Cavalry during the battle. Pershing worked closely with the Buffalo Soldiers and admired their courage and resilience. His respect for these troops would stay with him throughout his career, earning him the nickname "Black Jack" due to his association with them.
Though the Rough Riders and Roosevelt were hailed as heroes following the battle, the contributions of the Buffalo Soldiers were often overshadowed in the public eye. However, their participation was crucial in both the capture of Kettle Hill and the nearby San Juan Hill, leading to the eventual surrender of Santiago and a decisive victory for the U.S. in the war. Their bravery in battle directly challenged racial stereotypes and contributed to the ongoing fight for civil rights, laying a foundation for greater recognition of African American soldiers in future conflicts.
Pershing's experience with the Buffalo Soldiers would significantly influence his leadership in World War I, where he commanded the American Expeditionary Forces in Europe. His time with the Buffalo Soldiers shaped his understanding of the importance of diversity and inclusion in the military, and he carried those lessons into his later career, emphasizing the need for skilled and disciplined troops from all backgrounds. The heroism displayed by the Buffalo Soldiers during the Spanish-American War, therefore, not only impacted the course of the war itself but also contributed to broader changes in the U.S. military's structure and its treatment of African American service members.
Roosevelt’s charismatic leadership and personal bravery were critical in the Rough Riders' success. Though they faced heavy Spanish resistance, Roosevelt famously led the charge on horseback, inspiring his men to victory. Colonel Leonard Wood, an experienced officer, also played a key role in organizing and preparing the regiment, ensuring they were well-equipped and ready for combat. After the war, Roosevelt capitalized on his newfound fame, becoming the governor of New York in 1899, and later, the 26th President of the United States. Wood continued his military career and later served as the Governor of Cuba and the Philippines, playing a pivotal role in the U.S. military’s administrative efforts in its new territories.
Yellow Journalism: Hurst, Pulitzer, and Media Influence
A major factor influencing public opinion and U.S. intervention in the war was the role of yellow journalism—a sensationalist style of news reporting that exaggerated events to provoke emotional responses. William Randolph Hearst and Joseph Pulitzer, two prominent newspaper publishers, are often associated with this form of journalism.
Hearst’s New York Journal and Pulitzer’s New York World used lurid headlines and fabricated stories to inflame public outrage over Spanish atrocities in Cuba, often with little factual basis. This type of coverage was instrumental in galvanizing popular support for the war, as the American public began to see U.S. involvement as a moral duty to liberate oppressed people.
One famous anecdote attributed to Hearst (though its veracity is debated) involves him reportedly telling a journalist, "You furnish the pictures, and I'll furnish the war," underlining the powerful role of the media in shaping public sentiment and policy decisions.
The Buffalo Soldiers: African American Contribution to the Spanish-American War and Beyond
The term "Buffalo Soldiers" refers to African American soldiers who served in the U.S. Army after the Civil War. The nickname was given to them by Native Americans, who compared their fighting spirit and resilience to that of the buffalo. The name stuck, and it came to symbolize the courage, perseverance, and dedication of these Black soldiers in the face of adversity. Among the Buffalo Soldiers were the 9th and 10th Cavalry Regiments and the 24th and 25th Infantry Regiments, which played a critical role during the Spanish-American War (1898) and beyond, particularly under the command of notable figures like John J. "Black Jack" Pershing.
Role in the Spanish-American War
The Spanish-American War of 1898 was a pivotal conflict between Spain and the United States, spurred by the Cuban struggle for independence and the explosion of the USS Maine in Havana Harbor. African American troops, particularly the Buffalo Soldiers, were deployed to fight in various battles during the war, including some of its most famous engagements.
One of the most notable contributions of the Buffalo Soldiers was during the Battle of San Juan Hill in July 1898. This battle, often romanticized as the victory of Theodore Roosevelt’s Rough Riders, was in fact a collaborative effort that relied heavily on the courage and effectiveness of the Buffalo Soldiers. The 9th and 10th Cavalry Regiments were instrumental in the charge up Kettle Hill and San Juan Hill. These two key positions, which overlooked the Cuban city of Santiago, were essential to the U.S. victory.
The 10th Cavalry, alongside the Rough Riders, fought bravely under withering Spanish fire, scaling the heights and enduring intense combat. Despite the danger, the Buffalo Soldiers displayed extraordinary valor. In fact, many historians argue that the success of the Rough Riders was due, in large part, to the support of these African American troops, who cleared a path and provided critical covering fire.
Though Roosevelt and his Rough Riders were glorified in the media, the contributions of the Buffalo Soldiers were often downplayed or ignored. Nevertheless, their heroism in the war helped challenge racial stereotypes of the time, showing that African American soldiers were just as capable and brave as their white counterparts. These soldiers not only fought for American victory but also for their dignity, hoping that their service would lead to greater civil rights and recognition back home.
Black Jack Pershing and the Buffalo Soldiers
John J. "Black Jack" Pershing played a significant role in the story of the Buffalo Soldiers. Before rising to prominence as the commander of the American Expeditionary Forces in World War I, Pershing served as an officer in the 10th Cavalry Regiment. His experiences with the Buffalo Soldiers shaped his career and his views on race in the military.
Pershing earned his nickname "Black Jack" as a result of his command of Black troops. Though initially meant as a derogatory term by officers who resented his association with African American soldiers, the name later became a badge of honor. Pershing deeply respected the bravery and discipline of the Buffalo Soldiers, having witnessed their performance in the Spanish-American War and in the campaigns against Native American tribes in the American West.
Following the war, Pershing continued to serve with the 10th Cavalry during the Philippine-American War (1899–1902), where he again saw the African American regiments play a vital role. Pershing’s time with the Buffalo Soldiers taught him valuable lessons about leadership, logistics, and battlefield command, which he would later apply during his leadership of American forces in World War I.
The Buffalo Soldiers and the Struggle for Civil Rights
While the Buffalo Soldiers’ bravery and contributions to the Spanish-American War were undeniable, their service did not immediately translate into greater equality or civil rights for African Americans. The U.S. military remained segregated, and Black soldiers often faced discrimination both in the field and upon returning home. In the Jim Crow era, African Americans in the South still endured segregation and disenfranchisement, and many of the soldiers who had fought for their country returned to a society that viewed them as second-class citizens.
Despite these challenges, the legacy of the Buffalo Soldiers had a profound impact on the African American community. Their valor in combat proved that African Americans were capable of serving their country with distinction, challenging the prevailing racist attitudes of the time. The Buffalo Soldiers’ service during the Spanish-American War became a symbol of the African American struggle for civil rights and equality, a struggle that would continue into the 20th century with movements led by figures like W.E.B. Du Bois and the NAACP.
Their contributions in the military, from the Indian Wars to the Spanish-American War and beyond, would later inspire African American troops during both World Wars, the Korean War, and the Civil Rights Movement. The Buffalo Soldiers paved the way for the eventual desegregation of the U.S. military in 1948, when President Harry Truman signed Executive Order 9981, officially ending racial segregation in the armed forces.
Pershing's Role in World War I
John J. Pershing's experience with the Buffalo Soldiers proved invaluable during World War I. As the commander of the American Expeditionary Forces (AEF) in Europe, he led American troops into the brutal conflict of the Western Front. His leadership helped turn the tide of the war in favor of the Allies, and his insistence on keeping American forces independent rather than amalgamating them into British and French units was crucial to maintaining the U.S.'s strategic autonomy.
Pershing's respect for African American soldiers, however, was complicated. Although he had served with distinction alongside Black troops, during World War I, he largely succumbed to the pressure of the segregated military establishment. African American troops were segregated and often placed under French command, despite their willingness and capability to serve. The famous 369th Infantry Regiment, known as the "Harlem Hellfighters," distinguished themselves in combat under French command, earning numerous honors, but like the Buffalo Soldiers, their contributions were underappreciated by the U.S. military establishment.
The Buffalo Soldiers were a key part of the U.S. Army during the Spanish-American War, playing a vital role in victories like the Battle of San Juan Hill. Their bravery and dedication earned them a place in history, even though their contributions were often downplayed due to racism and segregation. John J. Pershing’s leadership, both during and after the war, was shaped by his time with the Buffalo Soldiers, influencing his later command in World War I. Their legacy is one of heroism, resilience, and an enduring fight for equality, laying the groundwork for the eventual desegregation of the U.S. military and the broader civil rights movement.
Aftermath of the War in the Philippines
While the Treaty of Paris officially ended the Spanish-American War, it also set the stage for the Philippine-American War, which erupted shortly afterward. Filipinos, who had been fighting for independence from Spain, were disillusioned when the United States refused to grant them independence. Instead, the U.S. sought to establish control over the islands, leading to a brutal conflict that lasted from 1899 to 1902.
The war was marked by guerrilla warfare and atrocities committed by both sides. The United States eventually prevailed, but the war left deep scars in the Philippines, which would remain a U.S. colony until after World War II. For the U.S., the Philippine conflict raised moral and political questions about imperialism and America’s role on the global stage.
In summary, the Spanish-American War of 1898 not only ended Spain’s empire in the Western Hemisphere but also launched the United States into a new era of imperialism, with far-reaching consequences in the Caribbean and the Pacific. The war also underscored the growing influence of the media, the role of African American soldiers, and the complexities of colonialism and independence movements in the modern world.