The correct answer is:
The Spaniards
Explanation:
The U.S.S. Maine was a battleship sent by the United States to Cuba to protect American citizens and properties during the Cuban revolt against Spain. The U.S.S. Maine sank after an explosion in the Havana harbor in January 1898, and killed 260 American crew members. After investigations were made, it was believed that the explosion was created with an external force, like a mine, and American people blamed Spain because of hostile relations between the countries. This explosion was the determinant factor for the United States intervention in the Cuban revolt.