The United States finished fighting for Cuba's independence from Spain, then turned around and took control of the Philippines in trying to civilize them and force them into a more Americanized lifestyle. American rule was worse than Spain's in many ways. During the 48 years of U.S. annexation of the Philippines, more than 1.5 million Filipinos died, and far fewer during the 300 years of Spanish rule. Additionally, the United States attempted to justify annexation because it contributed to their education. However, if they could read, the Philippines could accuse America of hypocrisy regarding our own Constitution and Declaration of Independence. The Constitution states that “all men are by nature equally free and independent, and have certain inherent rights of which…they cannot deprive or despoil their posterity; namely, the enjoyment of life and liberty, with the means of acquiring and possessing property. , and seek and obtain happiness and security. Filipinos were not treated as equals, but rather ruled, which ultimately deprived many people of the lifestyle. Moreover, the Filipinos were far from the pursuit of happiness, thousands of natives died trying to gain independence, causing resentment and anger. the opposite of life, liberty and security. Naturally, the United States, a very prosperous nation in many ways, believed that its "charitable action" toward the Philippines was beneficial in allowing the uncivilized to become part of a civilized, powerful, and profitable world. Culture seemed like the right approach for a country that had just been ruled for 300 years. By giving them a functioning government, an education system, a military presence, the United States really felt like it was helping. However, the Filipinos felt dictated and did not do so. accept the lifestyle that Americans