Question

Here are the reasons for declaring war on Spain that were discussed at the start of this lesson. Think about “The War Prayer” and its message, then click on the reasons that Twain would have supported as a cause for going to war.
to gain freedom for Cuba’s people
to punish Spain for its policies in Cuba
to protect American investments in Cuba
to protect American trade with Cuba
to gain control of Cuba for the United States
none of the above

Answer 1

The right answer of course, is none of the above

The obvious intention and message of this short story is to show the reader "The other face of war" this meaning that in every fight there has to be one loser and one winner; reminding the fact that for the winner to feel satisfaction for the victory there has to be a loser who cries for defeat.

The author points out the irrational fact, that people pray for god to let their soldiers to kill and not to be killed, whereas, god should be asked for blessings.

It is necessary to point out as well that the misterious preacher also states that when people pray for US soldiers to come back alive, they are automatically praying for the enemy to be killed.

Mothers who thank god for bringing their sons back alive, mean at the same, time mothers who shall mourn sons who never did.

Answer 2

The correct answer is "none of the above". Mark Twain's "War Prayer" poem stated that there is a part in people´s prayer which they implicitly wish for but do not mention, which is the desire of the destruction and suffering of their enemies. This poem was written as a response to the Spanish-American War.

What the poem emphasizes in are the consequences that result for nations submitted to conflicts, which are al the hardships the people are left with after the war is over.