Benjamin Franklin Norris was an American writer and journalist in a period of "Progressive Era". He was the first author who brought French naturalism in American literature. Norris was not a supporter of socialism as a political system, but his works were in a socialist orientation and inspired many progressive writers. Darwinian Theory of evolution and some Spencer's articles made a huge influence on his works.
"The Surrender of Santiago" is based on a true story about the surrender of Spanish General José Toral y Vázquez. The year of 1898 brought difficult times and even Spanish-American War or Cuban War of Independence. The heroes of this story are American, Cuban and Spanish soldiers as well as their brave generals: General Shafter, General Toral etc. Read "The Surrender of Santiago" to find out what happened in the city of Santiago after the decisive US and Cuban victory.