Spanish forces on the island of Puerto Rico were defeated in about three weeks.
Puerto Ricans offered little resistance. They were glad to see Spanish rule end, and were hopeful that the United States would support their wish for self-government.
To their disappointment, they were not even consulted when Spain ceded Puerto Rico to the United States. Under the Foraker Act of 1900, the island was administered as a U.S. territory, overseen by a governor who was appointed by the president.
Puerto Ricans were not American citizens and had less autonomy than before. They became subject not to Spanish-speaking people but to rulers who spoke a foreign language and had a different culture.
They continued to demand a greater say in their own government.
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