Question

why do you think john hay called the spanish american war a " splendid little war"?

Answer 1

On April 21, 1898, the United States declared war against Spain. It would be the first overseas conflict fought by the U.S. It involved major campaigns in both Cuba and the Philippine Islands. ... Their quest was described as a "splendid little war" by Secretary of State John Hay

Answer 2

It honestly depends on your definition for "splendid" but i think he said that because of the Naval victories and the invasion of Cuba was a success, with barely any flaws !