Spanish government was strewn with internal dissention and economic troubles 1868, in Yara, landowners declare independence, start the war. Lasts until 1878. Accepted a peace, but independence withheld. Abolition becomes a goal after 1865 because benefits of joining U.S. outweigh losses of emancipation. This removes the last major factor keeping creole planters loyal to Spain.
War decimates creole landowners, hinders the formation of a landholding elite.
Entrepreneurs from the U.S. fill in. McKinley Tariff Act of 1890 abolishes import duties on sugar and molasses. Departs from Key West. Among passengers, a journalist. Commandeers vessal on April 27, forces to sail to Cape Sable, Fl.