Frank Norris
The Surrender of Santiago
An Account of the Historic Surrender of Santiago to General
Shafter, July 17, 1898
"The Surrender of Santiago" by Frank Norris is a historical account detailing the significant military event that occurred during the Spanish-American War in the late 19th century. This book provides a vivid narrative of the surrender of Santiago de Cuba to American forces under General Shafter on July 17, 1898. Written in the early 20th century, it captures not only the military maneuvers but also the human experiences and the atmosphere surrounding this pivotal moment in American history. The narrative is centered around the tense buildup to the surrender, capturing the moments leading up to the ceremony where the American flag would be raised over the city. Norris describes the scenes with rich detail, from the preparations of the generals and the assembled troops to the tense anticipation and eventual relief of the surrender itself. As the American forces move into Santiago, the triumph is palpable, with accounts of the soldiers' emotions and the reactions of Spanish troops as they relinquish power. The book serves as both an action-packed recount of military events and a reflective observation on the implications of conquest and nationalism, showcasing the conflicting sentiments of pride and solemnity felt by those present at this historic surrender.