1. Diplomatic Negotiations:
- McKinley could have pursued more extensive diplomatic negotiations with Spain. He could have sent special envoys or mediators to Madrid to discuss Cuba's autonomy, reforms, and potential independence under Spanish sovereignty.
2. Economic Pressure:
- Instead of resorting to military action, McKinley could have applied economic pressure on Spain. This could have included imposing stricter trade tariffs, embargoes on Spanish goods, or freezing Spanish assets in the United States.
3. International Mediation:
- McKinley could have sought the involvement of other countries or international organizations to mediate the conflict. This could have included proposing a joint international commission or asking the European powers to intervene and pressure Spain.
4. Gradual Autonomy:
- Rather than demanding immediate independence for Cuba, McKinley could have negotiated for a gradual process of increasing autonomy for the island. This could have allowed Spain to save face while addressing some of the key Cuban grievances.
5. Support for Cuban Autonomy:
- McKinley could have provided more open and vocal support for Cuban autonomy within the Spanish empire. This could have emboldened the Cuban autonomy movement and put more pressure on Spain.
6. Congressional Consultation:
- McKinley could have consulted more closely with Congress before taking military action. This would have allowed for a more robust national debate and could have potentially garnered broader support or prevented the Spanish-American War altogether.
7. Humanitarian Intervention:
- Instead of focusing on Cuban independence, McKinley could have emphasized humanitarian concerns and the protection of American citizens in Cuba. This might have led to a more limited military intervention aimed at ensuring the safety of Americans and addressing humanitarian needs.
It's important to note that these are just a few alternative approaches that President McKinley could have taken. The decision to go to war with Spain was ultimately a complex one influenced by various factors, including domestic politics, public opinion, and geopolitical concerns.