in a short paragraph how did the Spanish american War mark a turning point in American History

The Spanish-American War marked a significant turning point in American history as it signaled the country's emergence as a global power. Prior to the war, the United States had largely focused on domestic issues and westward expansion within North America. However, the victory over Spain in 1898, which resulted in the acquisition of overseas territories like Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Philippines, marked the beginning of American imperialism. This shift in foreign policy, from isolationism to interventionism, set the stage for the United States' involvement in international affairs and conflicts in the 20th century, including both World Wars and the Cold War. Therefore, the Spanish-American War was a pivotal moment that marked America's transition from a national to an international power.