What McKinley's view on war with Spain?

President William McKinley was initially hesitant to engage in war with Spain, preferring diplomatic solutions to the crisis in Cuba. However, after the explosion of the USS Maine and growing public pressure, he ultimately believed military action was necessary to protect American interests and support Cuban independence. McKinley sought to maintain a balance between public sentiment and his cautious approach, leading to the eventual declaration of war in April 1898. His administration viewed the conflict as a means to assert American power and influence in the Caribbean and beyond.