After every incident in Cuba American newspapers called for war against Spain. On January 25th the USS Maine entered Havana harbor on a peaceful mission whose purpose was to be available in case American in Havana needed help. On the night of February 15th the USS Maine exploded and sank in Havana harbor. Spain was accused of blowing up the Maine, and American newspapers demanded immediate war. In the end of March the Navy Board of Inquiry reported that a mine destroyed the Maine. On April 19th the Congress voted to declare war against Spain.