History of Cuba Between 22 and 24 June 1898 the Americans landed under General William R. Shafter at Daiquirí and Siboney, east of Santiago, and established a base. The port of Santiago became the main target of U.S. naval operations, and the American fleet attacking Santiago needed shelter from the summer hurricane season. Nearby Guantánamo Bay, with its excellent harbour, was chosen for this purpose and attacked on 6 June. The Battle of Santiago de Cuba, on 3 July 1898, was the largest naval engagement during the Spanish–American War, and resulted in the destruction of the Spanish Caribbean Squadron. Resistance in Santiago consolidated
Santiago de Cuba (baseball) between the two cities (La Habana and Santiago de Cuba) dating back to the era when Cuba was a colony of Spain two centuries ago. The Super Classic of the Cuban National Series between Santiago de Cuba and Industriales takes place six times per season. The "Avispas" (Wasps) won three straight titles during the seasons ending in 1999, 2000, and 2001. The club also won the title during the season ending in 2008. Santiago de Cuba sent only one player to the 2006 World Baseball Classic, pitcher Ormari Romero. But to the 2009 World Baseball Classic Santiago de Cuba sent