Cuban War of Independence Santiago, and established a base. The port of Santiago became the main target of naval operations. The U.S. fleet attacking Santiago needed shelter from the summer hurricane season, thus nearby Guantánamo Bay, with its excellent harbor, was chosen for this purpose and attacked on June 6 (1898 invasion of Guantánamo Bay). The Battle of Santiago de Cuba on July 3, 1898 was the largest naval engagement during the Spanish–American War, resulting in the destruction of the Spanish Caribbean Squadron (Flota de Ultramar). Resistance in Santiago consolidated around Fort Canosa, All the while, major battles between Spaniards and Americans took place
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