Why did Americans support Spanish control of Cuba, while others did not?

In the 19th century, opinions on Spanish control of Cuba among Americans were divided due to various factors:

1. Economic Interests: Some Americans, particularly plantation owners and businessmen in the South, supported Spanish control because of economic ties with Cuba. Cuba was a major sugar-producing region, and American businesses had investments in Cuban industries, benefiting from trade relations with the island.
2. Strategic Importance: For some American policymakers, maintaining Spanish control over Cuba was seen as a way to safeguard U.S. strategic interests in the Caribbean. They believed that having a stable, Spanish-controlled Cuba would prevent the island from falling under the influence of other European powers, particularly Great Britain or France, which could pose threats to U.S. interests in the region.
3. Humanitarian Concerns: On the other hand, some Americans, particularly those aligned with anti-imperialist sentiments, opposed Spanish control due to humanitarian concerns. They were critical of Spain's oppressive rule in Cuba, which included harsh colonial policies, suppression of independence movements and reports of human rights abuses against the Cuban population.
4. Support for Cuban Independence: There were also Americans who sympathized with the Cuban independence movement and supported Cuba's quest for independence from Spanish colonial rule. This sentiment was influenced by ideals of national self-determination and anti-colonialism, aligning with the cause of liberation and independence for Cuba.

Overall, opinions on Spanish control of Cuba were shaped by economic interests, strategic considerations, humanitarian concerns and support for the Cuban people's quest for independence. These differing perspectives contributed to a complex debate within American society regarding the best course of action concerning Cuba and its relationship with Spain.