Critical Thinking 18-3 #3

After the Spanish-American War, Puerto Rico became part of the United States. American rule of the area had some negative effects and some positive ones. Some Puerto Ricans were against this change. They were afraid that they would lose the freedom to govern themselves that they had when they were ruled by Spain. Some of these people called for independence, the freedom given to Cuba and Panama. The United States made no promises of independence to Puerto Rico, because it had strategic value to the nation. However, there were some good aspects to the change. Puerto Rico was controlled by the military for a time, so at least the new territory would be protected and held together. In 1900, a civil government was set up to replace the military rule, giving a little more freedom to the people of Puerto Rico. Eventually, Puerto Ricans were recognized as true U.S. citizens, gaining rights and the freedom to elect both houses of their legislature.