What was the Ten Years’ War in Cuba?

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Theodore Roosevelt and the Rough Riders — Spanish-American War Theodore Roosevelt leading the Rough Riders during the Spanish-American War, 1898; print created by Kurz & Allison.

The Ten Years’ War (1868–1878) was the first war of Cuban independence, precipitated by Spain’s refusal to grant political autonomy and its decision to increase taxes on the colony.1

On October 10, 1868, Carlos Manuel de Céspedes launched the revolt by issuing the Grito de Yara, in which he declared Cuban independence and freed his slaves to join the revolutionary cause. While the movement gained support from various farmers, laborers, and landowners seeking political power and the abolition of slavery, it faced opposition from many wealthy sugar producers and a large portion of the enslaved population who were wary of the proposed manumission plans or the call for U.S. annexation.1

The conflict concluded with the 1878 Pact of Zanjón, in which Spain promised political and economic reforms. However, the failure of the Spanish government to implement these changes effectively led to continued unrest, including the subsequent "Little War" (La Guerra Chiquita) and the eventual outbreak of the final war for independence in 1895.1