What were the reasons for sending the u. s. s maine to cuba

The USS Maine was sent to Havana harbor to protect American interests in Cuba as the relationship with Spain deteriorated. We were very concerned about what the Spanish were doing in Cuba. Sending the USS Maine to Cuba reminded the Spanish of our concern regarding the situation in Cuba. When the USS Maine exploded, Americans immediately blamed Spain. Ultimately, pressure increased on President McKinley to declare war on Spain. This declaration of war occurred in April 1898.