What were the main reasons outlined in McKinley's War Message for America's intervention in the Spanish-American War?

The primary reasons outlined in McKinley's War Message for America's intervention in the Spanish-American War center around the urgency of stopping Spanish atrocities in Cuba, the protection of American citizens, and the safeguarding of U.S. trade and commerce interests. McKinley emphasized the humanitarian need to address the suffering of the Cuban people due to Spanish colonial rule, which was marked by significant violence and repression.

Additionally, the protection of American lives and properties that were threatened due to the conflict was a critical factor. Many Americans had financial interests in Cuba, and disturbances there posed risks to these investments. Furthermore, securing trade routes and ensuring stable commerce in the Caribbean was essential for American economic interests.

The other options, while they touch on related themes, do not accurately capture the main points made by McKinley in his war message. For instance, the end of European colonization, establishing military bases, and spreading democracy were not the foremost justifications presented at the time for U.S. intervention in the Spanish-American War as per McKinley’s address. Instead, the focus was firmly on humanitarian concerns and the protection of American lives and interests.