Battle of Santiago de Cuba U.S. forces under Major General Elwell S. Otis, who was appointed military governor of the Philippines after the Spanish–American War. This territorial conflict was ironic because the roles of the Spanish–American War were now reversed. The U.S. once fought to free Cuba from Spain's colonial power, but now the United States aimed to colonize the Philippines. Ultimately, the Spanish–American War brought to light deeply rooted conflicts between the principles of democracy and the urges of budding imperialism. Two of the Spanish ships, "Infanta Maria Teresa" and "Cristóbal Colón", were later re-floated and taken over by the U.S. Both eventually foundered
Carnival of Santiago de Cuba incorrect to call them by the name "carnavales"; they should be called what we have always called them: "Los Mamarrachos".” In spite of the efforts of “writers, journalists and many traditionalist citizens,” the successive "mamarrachos" of July 24-6 became referred to as the “"Carnaval" of Santiago de Cuba (Pérez I 1988:31, note 3).” Carnival of Santiago de Cuba Whether they are called "carnavales", "charangas" or "parrandas", large public celebrations dating at least (in Santiago de Cuba) as far back as the 17th century are common throughout Cuba. However, among Cubans, the "Carnaval" of Santiago de Cuba enjoys a special status