The Cuban Missile Crisis

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Background:

Cuba had been an American ally for a long time. The US controlled their leader, Batista, for quite a few years and Cuba became a vacation spot for rich Americans. However, after a three-year Guerrilla campaign Fidel Castro was able to overthrow the old Cuban government. Castro was communist and quickly formed close relations with the USSR. This upset the USA and created tensions between Cuba and the USA. The USA had to find a way to contain Communism in Cuba.

Initial attempts at containment:

1959-61

  • Cuba and the USA maintained a bad relationship but decided to not confront each other. Castro took over all American businesses but let America keep its naval base. By the summer of 1960, Castro was receiving arms from the USSR.

January 1961

  • The USA broke off diplomatic relations with Cuba.

April

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